Is it possible to just be friends with benefits?
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Expert Comments
It's definitely possible to just be friends with benefits, as long as both parties set strict boundaries and practice clear and open communication. Here are some general guidelines for FWB relationships:
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- There are no strings attached in the relationship, meaning there's no potential for a romantic connection. If either partner starts to develop feelings, they should probably end the relationship.
- You may want to hook up with someone outside of your friend group, or someone you don't see too regularly. This can help you both maintain your FWB boundaries, as well as minimize the risk of things getting awkward in your friend group if the relationship ends badly or one of you develops feelings.
- Communicate clearly and regularly about your feelings and expectations. No matter what rules you and your partner set up at the start of the relationship, your feelings and needs may evolve, so make a point to check in on one another and clarify your expectations and boundaries as needed.
- Maintain a platonic relationship outside the bedroom. If you flirt or go on dates outside of your sexual relationship, it can blur the boundaries between a FWB relationship and a committed, romantic relationship.
- Practice safe sex, and get tested for STIs regularly if one or both of you are seeing other people.
It is really important to communicate exactly what your hopes and expectations are for a friends with benefits relationship. How often will you see each other? What are the expectations in the friendship and with the sexual relationship? Can you see other people at the same time? How can you ensure everyone’s safety from STDs if so? Getting as specific as possible will help eliminate confusion, mixed signals, and potential problems or fights in the future.
Encourage continued communication to keep everyone safe and in the loop. Sex between friends can seem fairly innocuous, but sometimes strong feelings of attachment can develop between one or both partners. Find time to check in with each other on a regular basis and see how the relationship is progressing, if there are any growing feelings, and if the relationship should or shouldn't continue. It’s important to remember you were friends first. Staying friends no matter what should be a priority.
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Encourage continued communication to keep everyone safe and in the loop. Sex between friends can seem fairly innocuous, but sometimes strong feelings of attachment can develop between one or both partners. Find time to check in with each other on a regular basis and see how the relationship is progressing, if there are any growing feelings, and if the relationship should or shouldn't continue. It’s important to remember you were friends first. Staying friends no matter what should be a priority.
Reader Comments
Votes 👍 Yes
Cause me and my ex, who are best friends now, are also friends with benefits and we couldn't be happier.
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Votes 👍 Yes
Yes !! We all learn basic life skills by each other valuable experience and knowledge..
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