MANY OF US GROW UP ALONGSIDE narratives of a "happily ever after" one soulmate-sort-of love, but this cultural ideal is far from a universal reality - or even a universal desire. Just like someone might have several friends who meet various social needs, many people, myself included, crave more than one romantic or sexual partner. And if that's the case - and you're already committed to one partner - it makes sense that you might be interested in an open relationship.
That decision is a hugely personal one of course, and it's important to recognize that open relationships, where two partners consensually agree to seek sex and/or love outside of their existing relationship, aren't for everyone. They can feel complicated and, at times, downright messy - not only because many of us live in societies that don't support nonmonogamy, but also because open relationships can bring up issues around jealousy, boundaries, and relationship goals that can all be pretty intense to navigate.
That said, they can also be incredibly fulfilling. To help you decide whether some sort of open arrangement makes sense for your love life, we asked Dr Dulcinea Alex Pitagora, a therapist who specialises in nonmonogamous relationships, for the most important questions to ponder before opening up an existing relationship.
1 What does an "open relationship" mean 1 to you?
If you're researching this topic for the first time, you'll probably come across new vocabulary, but the umbrella term for most types of open relationships is ethical nonmonogamy (ENM) a dynamic in which transparency and communication are at the core of the choices you and your partner(s) make.
This story is from the February - March 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February - March 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
58 Do's and Dont's for Getting Dressed Right Now
Is it ever OK to repeat outfits? Should your socks match your shoes? Are Henleys cool? GQ staffers weigh in on all the most pressing style questions of the day
A man of many talents
Fhatuwani Mukheli is a true trailblazer, carving a unique path in his multifaceted career. His journey is captivating story, always evolving and filled with surprises
The man who doesn't play by the rule book
CEO of Red Rocket, Matteo Brambilla is aman onamission to improve big energy
Mastering your money: Financial resolutions for the new year
Setting smart goals and resolutions for 2024 can help you achieve greater financial stability, reduce stress, and work towards the future you envision
BUSINESS CLASS TRAVEL
YOU'D EXPECT NOTHING ELSE BUT COMFORT AND LUXURY FROM A RANGE ROVER OR LEXUS. A HYUNDAI NOT SO MUCH. SO WOULD THE STYLISH PALISADE PROVE A SURPRISE? OUR MOTORING ED DIETER LOSSKARN WAS KEEN TO FIND OUT...
The Italian Stallions
Named after breathtaking Italian mountain pass roads Alfa's SUVs are not only but lots of fun to drive. GQ motoring ed Dieter Losskarn took the Tonale across South African mountain passes, and the Stelvio to De Hoop Nature Reserve attractive to look at, some spectacular
10 Perfect Summer Fragrances
Whether you're heading to a beach party, a rooftop bar, or just a casual day out, here's a curated list of scents ideal for those hot summer months
An audience with a master perfumer
Francis Kurkdjian, French perfumer and artistic director of Maison Francis Kurkdjian, shares the sources of inspiration and discoveries on his journey into the world of luxury fragrances
CURATED SUMMER ESSENTIALS
Our Fashion Director Luke Diva shares his summer checklist, from refreshing cocktails to trendy wardrobe items
Taste Makers
The Marble Group the team behind three of Johannesburg’s top restaurants, Marble, Saint and Zioux take us on an urban adventure in dining