Friends-With-Benefits: A Guide

The phrase "friends-with-benefits" (FWB) has been getting a lot of attention lately, and while it may seem like a best-case scenario on the surface, but like any relationship (and yes, it is a relationship), it has its own pros and cons.

What are they? I'm glad you asked!

The pros side is great - with a FWB, you get sexual satisfaction that is convenient, and because you already know your FWB, there's less pressure and performance anxiety, which makes things more comfortable.

With any pros/cons list, the better the pros are, the worse the cons will be, and that's the case with FWBs.

There are more downsides to FWBs than you may realize. One of the more obvious cons is developing stronger feelings for your FWB partner, which could turn out bad for you if your FWB partner doesn't feel the same way. (If they do feel the same way, that's a pro, but an unlikely pro.) Another con that I don't think people consider is the possibility of losing their friend if their FWB relationship sours, and I consider the loss of friends to be a huge downside!

Now it's time for the "what-if cons", as in what if you get into a romantic relationship with someone who isn't your FWB? Will your FWB be able to handle being pushed aside? If you are the one being pushed aside, will you be able to handle it? How will your new partner react when they find out about your FWB? I have personally experienced each of these situations, and let me tell you, it is not fun or easy. It can be painful, especially if you are the one being pushed aside.

Keep those pros/cons in mind when embarking upon a FWB relationship, and take time to consider these general rules of etiquette for FWBs (as well as casual sex or one night stands):

• Always be honest - ALWAYS.
• Make sure you and your partner have a clear understanding of what you each want.
• Protect yourself - just because they're your friend doesn't mean that they can't be sleeping with other people too.
• Even if your partner swears up and down that you're the only one they're sleeping with, use protection anyways - babies are a real mood killer!
  
• Always remember that your FWB is not your girlfriend/boyfriend - there is no reason to treat them as such.
  
• However, you should always be courteous and kind.

With my advice in mind, you should now be able to carry on a successful FWB relationship! Just remember to be honest about everything, especially about what you want from your partner sexually. But be sure to listen to your partner too because FWBs aren't fun unless everyone is happy and satisfied!