12/20/2019
I love this for new and established relationships!
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“I think we should, um... talk about um... stuff first...” *awkwardness intensifies*
Let’s talk about establishing consent in new relationships.
It might be obvious that you need to establish effective communication and mutual consent before being s*xual with someone for the first time, but that doesn’t make it feel any easier; it can be scary, awkward, uncomfortable or carry the risk of “ruining the mood.”
Here’s the truth - if you haven’t done a good job of communicating your wants, needs and boundaries in the past, this practice won’t feel natural and easy. But you know what? I’m guessing s*x didn’t necessarily feel flawlessly easy the first time either, and you didn’t give up on that, did you?!
The trick is that you must actually believe that you and your partner(s) deserve better. Don’t settle for bad s*x or an unfulfilling relationship that is the result of everyone assuming they know what their partners want, like and need. When you establish a foundation of communication and an expectation of ongoing mutual consent, your relationship will feel more respectful, adaptable, healthy, trusting, fun, pleasurable, strong, and safe. You’ve got to psych yourself up for this conversation because you deserve the continuing benefits of the initial work of establishing communication.
It can be extra challenging to not yet know how your new partner best communicates, processes information, or deals with discomfort, but avoiding these necessary conversations isn’t going to protect anyone. It’s okay to admit that the conversation feels challenging but explain that you’re having it anyway because you believe you deserve a great experience.
Communication isn’t just for “serious” relationships - it’s for everyone who wants to feel safe and fulfilled. A little bit of awkwardness is a small price to pay for a lot of pleasure and satisfaction.
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