Designing Your Relationship Model

Choose your model consciously:

• Identify your core needs — rank security, freedom, companionship, and privacy
• Discuss models openly with your partner before major commitments
• Question defaults — "everyone does it" is not a reason; "this serves our needs" is
• Be willing to evolve — the model that works at 25 may not work at 45
• Ignore external judgment — your relationship serves you and your partner, not others

The best relationship is not the most popular model. It is the one both partners chose deliberately and evolve together as life changes.