Jealousy as an Obstacle to Successful Open Relationships 💔

Hey there, folks! 👋 As a passionate advocate of open relationships, I’ve noticed that one of the biggest hurdles that people face when trying to open up their romantic and sexual lives is jealousy. It’s a complicated emotion that can rear its ugly head in many different ways, and if not handled properly, can easily lead to the collapse of a relationship. In this blog, I want to dive deep into this topic, explore the many faces of jealousy, and offer some tips and tools for how to navigate it. So buckle up, and let’s get started!

The Perils of Comparing 🤦‍♂️

In open relationships, it’s natural to meet new partners and explore new connections. However, often, jealousy arises when we start comparing ourselves to these new people in our partner’s lives. We might feel like we’re not as attractive, not as good in bed, or not as interesting as these other partners. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, resentment, and anger.

The truth is, each of us is unique, and there’s no point in comparing ourselves to others. Your partner is with you for a reason, and just because they’re attracted to someone else doesn’t mean they find you any less attractive. So instead of comparing, focus on your own strengths and what makes you unique.

Fear of Loss 💔

Another common cause of jealousy in open relationships is fear of loss. We might worry that our partner will leave us for someone else, or that they’re not committed to us anymore. This fear can be paralyzing and can lead to all sorts of irrational behaviors.

The truth is, fear is a natural emotion, but it’s not always a reliable indicator of reality. Just because you’re afraid of losing your partner doesn’t mean it will happen. So instead of letting your fear run the show, communicate with your partner and work together to build a strong foundation of trust and commitment.

The Green-Eyed Monster 👀

Then there’s the green-eyed monster, envy. Envy is when we feel resentful or bitter because our partner is giving attention or affection to someone else. This can be especially challenging when we feel like we’re not getting enough attention or affection ourselves.

The truth is, envy is a natural emotion, but it’s not always a productive one. Instead of dwelling in envy, try to communicate with your partner about your needs and desires. It’s possible that they simply didn’t realize you were feeling neglected. And remember, just because your partner is giving attention to someone else doesn’t mean they don’t care about you.

Navigating Jealousy 🤔

Okay, so now that we’ve explored some of the common causes of jealousy let’s talk about some strategies for navigating it. Here are some tips that have worked for me and others in the open relationship community:

1. Communicate: This should be the first resort, always. Talk to your partner about how you’re feeling and what’s causing your jealousy. Then, work together to find a solution that works for both of you.

2. Invest in Yourself: Remember that you are worthy and lovable. Spend time doing things that make you feel good, whether that’s exercising, spending time with friends, or working on a hobby.

3. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment. When you feel jealousy arising, take a moment to observe it without getting swept away by it.

4. Learn from Others: Seek advice from other people who have experience in open relationships. There’s a whole community out there that can offer support and guidance.

Final thoughts 💭

Jealousy is a tough emotion to navigate, especially in open relationships. However, with patience, communication, and self-reflection, it’s possible to work through it and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. Remember, you are worthy of love and respect, and with the right tools, you can overcome any obstacle.

Thanks for reading! Hope these tips and insights are useful for you. ❤️