Create Your Own Rules with Christian and Jamie: A Polyamorous Love Story
Jamie and Christian are a polyamorous couple. Together, they share what polyamory means to them and confront common misconceptions about their relationship. They discuss defining their rules according to what makes them happy as a couple, rather than conforming to cultural norms. And, they describe ways in which polyamorous relationships require the same core elements of communication, respect, and foundational trust as successful monogamous relationships—perhaps even more so since they involve more than one person.
The story in this episode provides a model for giving yourself permission to define or redefine your family according to your own true north. Listen as Jamie and Christian explain how they navigate jealousy and build trust, practice naming and identifying their emotions, and what they believe are the essential ingredients for creating any lasting relationship.
Takeaways:
Polyamorous relationships can take many different forms—the idea is that the people involved have permission to date and fall in love with others while maintaining the relationship with their partner.
Monogamous relationships are commonly considered the only type of relationship out there; they may not be the right fit for everyone.
Polyamorous relationships and monogamous relationships share similar core elements such as communication, trust, and mutual respect.
A significant difference between polyamorous relationships and monogamous relationships are explicit rules and agreements. Monogamous relationships usually follow societal standards.
How you love different people is different; however, it’s possible to love each of your relationships equally.
Family is mutual love and acceptance.
In This Episode:
[ 4:00 ] About Jamie and Christian’s polyamorous relationship
[ 8:55 ] The structure of a polyamorous relationship
[ 14:50 ] Examples of stress in Jamie and Christian’s relationship
[ 25:50 ] How to know if polyamory is right for you
[35:00] What does family mean to you?
Links:
If you are interested to learn more about Polyamorous Relationships, Christian and Jamie recommend the following resources:
More than Two by Franklin Veaux
