A friend with benefits relationship (FWB) is a form of relationship in which two people are sexually intimate with one another (casual sexual), yet they are not committed to each other.
This set of people enjoys spending time together but their relationship doesn’t have any emotional attachment.
A lot of times people are not quite ready for a relationship but wants the benefits that come with having a man, so they end up considering friends with benefit which seems like the answer to their problems.
These consist of booty calls, date night, or someone to talk to and never have to deal with the drama that comes with being in a relationship with someone.
Friends with benefits are the perfect arrangement for some people. But it comes with its own rules and regulations. These guidelines will keep you in line and help you avoid falling in love or getting into a relationship you are not ready for.
Rule 1: It must be consensual
This is very important when you are hooking up with someone, even for regular relationships. You and your friend need to be on the same page to be clear about each other’s boundaries. And when it comes to sex never ever assume consent, always ask.
Rule 2: Choose someone you trust
Regardless of the fact that this isn’t a regular relationship doesn’t mean that you two should be open and honest about everything.
Should in case one person starts developing feelings for the other or one person wants to end things. This way you will both be okay with the end result because you have trust and honesty in your communication.
Rule 3: No lovey-dovey
Do not for any reason act like a couple when you are in a friend with benefits situation. This is the golden rule of an FWB relationship, no holding of hands, no smooch in public, no dates and every other thing couples do.
It is important to keep things simple so you don’t start catching feelings for them. You would start developing feelings for them even if that wasn’t your intention.
It’s only natural for feelings to creep in for someone when you spend a lot of time together, especially if it’s someone you are sexually intimate with. The best thing to do is to avoid this situation at all costs.
Rule 4: No Jealousy
There is nothing like exclusive in any friends with benefits arrangement. You are both allowed to date whoever you want. And you don’t have to reveal anything to each other outside what’s happening between you.
If you are a jealous type then FWB isn’t for you at all. You are open to other options when you are in an FWB relationship without questions.
Rule 5: Use protection
Just because you are not taking a relationship seriously doesn’t mean you should be nonchalant about your health and you are in for the sex not for a baby.
You also don’t know if the other party is seeing someone else. Always use protection when you are together to help prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
On a Final Note
A friend with benefits relationship is not really for everyone. If you are likely insecure, prone to emotional attachment easily, and struggle with jealousy. I would advise you not to get into an FWB situationship to avoid getting hurt or rejection.
Never get into an FWB relationship with someone you like, the tendency of falling in love with them is really high.
This kind of relationship can be fun and fulfilling. It can teach you about yourself and what to expect from partnership when you are finally ready for the real deal.
