The New Relationship Energy: Embracing Change in Open Relationships

Summary

In this episode of OpenL 101, John and Jackie discuss 'New Relationship Energy' (NRE), a phenomenon where excitement and connection are felt when meeting someone new. They explore how this can affect both partners in an open relationship, with one experiencing NRE and the other potentially feeling insecure or jealous. The hosts offer insights on recognizing NRE, managing insecurities, and fostering communication to navigate through these emotions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and embracing the temporary nature of NRE for a healthy and growing relationship.

Takeaways

• 😀 The video discusses 'New Relationship Energy' (NRE), a term used to describe the excitement and emotional connection that can occur when meeting someone new.
• 👫 NRE can affect both individuals in a relationship, including the one experiencing the new connection and their partner.
• 🤔 The video emphasizes that it's normal to feel a range of emotions, including insecurity or jealousy, when a partner experiences NRE with someone else.
• 🌟 The hosts, John and Jackie, highlight the importance of recognizing and embracing 'compersion', the joy one feels for their partner's happiness.
• 💡 They provide insights on how to handle NRE, suggesting that it's a temporary phase and not indicative of the long-term state of a relationship.
• 🗣️ Communication is key when dealing with NRE; discussing feelings openly can help navigate through the emotions that arise.
• 🔁 The video suggests that NRE is a natural part of any new connection and should not be feared but understood and managed.
• 💞 John shares his personal experience of feeling excited for Jackie when she experiences NRE, showcasing a healthy approach to such situations.
• 🚫 The video discourages negative behaviors like trying to control the situation or expressing jealousy, which can harm the relationship.
• 🌱 It's suggested that dealing with NRE can lead to personal growth and a stronger relationship, as it forces individuals to confront and overcome insecurities.

Q & A

What is the term used to describe the excitement in a new relationship?

The term used to describe the excitement in a new relationship is 'New Relationship Energy' or NRE.

How can new relationship energy make someone or their partner feel?

New relationship energy can make someone feel excited and connected, while it might make their partner feel uncomfortable or insecure.

What is the significance of the term 'compersion' mentioned in the script?

Compersion is the feeling of joy one experiences when one's partner finds happiness with someone else, which is often contrasted with jealousy in open relationships.

Why is it important for a partner to have good self-esteem in an open relationship?

Good self-esteem is important for a partner in an open relationship to feel secure and be happy for their partner's happiness with others, which can help prevent feelings of jealousy or insecurity.

What is the 'honeymoon phase' in the context of new relationships?

The 'honeymoon phase' refers to the initial period in a new relationship where everything seems fun and exciting because the couple is not yet dealing with the day-to-day challenges of a long-term relationship.

How does new relationship energy differ from the dynamics of a long-term relationship?

New relationship energy is characterized by the excitement of getting to know someone new and the novelty of shared experiences, whereas long-term relationships involve dealing with routine and daily life challenges.

What can a partner do if they feel uncomfortable with their partner's new relationship energy?

A partner can communicate their feelings openly with their partner, seek to understand the nature of new relationship energy, and work together to navigate through any insecurities or discomfort.

Why is it beneficial to have a name for the feelings that arise from new relationship energy?

Having a name for the feelings that arise from new relationship energy, such as 'compersion' or 'jealousy,' can help individuals understand and articulate their emotions, making it easier to address and resolve them.

What is the role of communication in dealing with new relationship energy in an open relationship?

Communication is crucial in dealing with new relationship energy as it allows partners to express their feelings, discuss their concerns, and work collaboratively to maintain a healthy and secure relationship.

How can a person experiencing new relationship energy support their partner who might be feeling insecure?

A person experiencing new relationship energy can support their partner by being open about their feelings, reassuring their partner of the strength of their bond, and actively working to address any insecurities or fears their partner may have.