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 steamy sex and close rendezvous. But from 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 Kilometers.

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Unfortunately, that isn’t the case with every connection, which is often how poisonous dating come to be. “A healthy 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 relationship online game 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 relationship 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 how to get a loan for self employed 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.

Whether you are trying to figure out where you stand with a good someone special or casually mapping the actual remainder of their lifestyle (NBD!), we have found a glance at 12 variety of intimate relationships you might keeps, between supes relaxed in order to lifelong commitment.

step 1. Flirty Family unit members

Lively closeness + boundaries = flirty relationships, teaches you Kilometers. Essentially, this can be a friendship who may have a great “tend to it, won’t they” function. These types of dating are typically about a pride boost and adventure without any genuine chance otherwise union. There’s an appeal less than those individuals friendly vibes, plus it typically includes anything from “kind body language and flirtatious terms to intimate thoughts and feelings,” Michelle says.

While, yes, flirting was 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-people trope is famous in shows, movies, and books for a reason, folks!

dos. Family unit members With Benefits

Sometimes when flirty friendships are taken to the next level without commitment or expectations, they turn into more. Enter: sex friends or family members with gurus (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 capture specific condoms before meeting up with your FWB.