Monogamy vs polygamy: Which love style actually suits you better?

Let's face it - not all relationships are the same. Some people are truly committed with one partner, others flourish in relationships that do not fit the ＆traditional＊ way of doing relationships. Monogamy and polygamy are two relational styles that have existed forever but with so many people questioning what is normal, it is worth examining... which one is actually right for you?

Monogamy is the idea that you commit to a single partner, one at a time - emotionally, sexually, romantically. (Credit: Freepik)

What is Monogamy?

For the majority of us, monogamy is what we have seen in films, literature, and society. Monogamy is the idea that you commit to a single partner, one at a time - emotionally, sexually, romantically.

There is familiarity in that structure. It is recognized legally and socially - marriage, parenting, existing publicly. Many people choose monogamy because it often provides emotional ownership and safety. One person, one life, one aging partner, one person to weather everything the world might throw at you. But with monogamy often comes expectations. One partner has to meet all of your needs, and that can lead to issues because if you don't communicate or don't match, it can easily lead to one partner feeling pressure and disappointment.

Also, and this is important for some people that can feel restricted around the apparent limitations of finding the lustful, the tender and vague in other partners and relationships.

On the flip side, Polygamy 每 or, more precisely, consensual non-monogamy 每 does away with the one-partner idea and instead emphasizes having multiple relationships, (Credit: Freepik)

What is Polygamy?

On the flip side, Polygamy 每 or, more precisely, consensual non-monogamy 每 does away with the one-partner idea and instead emphasizes having multiple relationships, whether romantic or sexual, where consent and honesty are paramount between all parties involved.

It's not solely ＆more sex＊ (though it can be), but recognizes that one partner may not be able to meet every emotional need or relational need 每 and that is okay. For some people, that's how it feels to love, and it looks more expansive and free from an explicit box.

Loving non-monogamously gives some room to roam, grow and redefine what being committed can look like. But it takes a fair amount of emotional maturity, jealousy still exists, boundaries still matter, and communication is everything.

That said, it＊s not exactly a breeze. Managing multiple relationships takes serious time, energy, and emotional bandwidth. And if everyone＊s not 100% clear on boundaries, things can get messy real quick. Plus, in some societies, polygamy still carries stigma, so you may need thick skin.

Whether you＊re a hopeless romantic or someone who thrives with multiple connections, it＊s more about knowing yourself than ticking a box. (Credit: Freepik)

Which one is better for you?

Whether you＊re a hopeless romantic or someone who thrives with multiple connections, it＊s more about knowing yourself than ticking a box. Monogamy and polygamy both have pros and cons 〞 neither is 'better' in general, only better for your own values, lifestyle, and emotional needs. If you treasure emotional intensity over time, want to settle into a long-term commitment, and want one person to build your life beside you, then monogamy may be the right route for you.

If you crave variety, believe that love is not limited to one person, and are capable of maintaining a very open and honest level of communication 〞 then polygamy or non-monogamy is likely to be a better fit. It＊s not about what is 'normal'

It＊s about what is best for you. Understand your needs, own your boundaries, and choose the relationship style that works for your life 〞 not just tradition.