Relationships-whether they last for a week or a lifetime-are one of the most exciting parts of being A Real Adult. They’re fun! They’re exciting! And a lot of the time, they involve passionate sex and romantic rendezvous. But from very first dates to

Very simply, marriage and sex therapist Adrienne Michelle describes a relationship as a connection to a person you continue to engage with. Naturally, these connections can range from casual to intimate, platonic to romantic. And ideally, these connections provide a healthy balance of give-and-take, support, security, care, and growth, adds ily therapist Katie Miles.

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Unfortunately, that isn’t the case with every connection, which is often how poisonous dating come to be. “A compliment relationship is the one that’s the right fit for you, both with the nature of the relationship and the person(s) you’re in a relationship with,” Miles explains.

And while a thriving, healthy relationship is the goal for many, if you’ve been in the matchmaking games for literally any amount of time, you’re probably aware that no two connections are the same. “Different types of relationships tend to come with distinct expectations, rules, and standards of engagement,” explains Miles. “And it’s important for each person’s well-being and sense of security to know what [the relationship] is.”

That’s why both experts agree: Defining the connection is key. In fact, Michelle says the only way a relationship can really thrive is if you’re on the same page regarding your wants and needs. Also! Since relationships are always evolving, it’s a good idea to continue checking in as you move forward-being on the same page now doesn’t mean you will be a year from nowmunication, folks! It’s a must.

Regardless if you are trying to puzzle out where you are which have an excellent special someone or simply just casually mapping out the remainder of your existence (NBD!), here is a peek at twelve sort of romantic matchmaking you might enjoys, ranging from supes casual to lifelong connection.

1. Flirty Family members

Playful intimacy + borders = flirty relationships, demonstrates to you Jammu girls hot Miles. Fundamentally, this might be a friendship who has got a good “have a tendency to it, would not they” feature. These types of matchmaking are typically regarding an ego improve and you may adventure without any actual risk or connection. There’s an appeal lower than those individuals amicable vibes, therefore normally is sold with from “form gestures and you can flirtatious terms to romantic thoughts and feelings,” Michelle says.

While, yes, teasing is actually enjoyable and these types of relationships are great if you just want the ego boost, Miles says because relationships can (and do) evolve, this has the potential to be the start of something much bigger. Granted, that means someone would have to consensually break the boundary, but the friends-to-lovers trope is famous in shows, movies, and books for a reason, folks!

dos. Relatives Which have Professionals

Sometimes when flirty friendships are taken to the next level without commitment or expectations, they turn into more. Enter: sex friends or household members with positives (FWB). Essentially, you’re pals in every sense, except the sexual boundaries are gone and you hook up either occasionally or regularly. “There’s an agreement that you enjoy each other’s company and the function is physical, adventurous, casual, and fun,” Miles explains.

That said, Michelle notes that these relationships can get tricky because there *could* be an emotional component involved that isn’t talked about. “It’s crucial both parties consent to just being casual, intimate friends,” she says. Also, FWIW: Miles suggests having a rule about practicing safe sex in case other partners are involved, so be sure to take specific condoms before meeting up with your FWB.