Friends with Benefits

Once thought to be taboo, "friends with benefits" seems to have become more common than the formal relationship. And why not? You're friends, you're comfortable with them and they're comfortable with you. I mean, who wouldn't want a little good lovin' from a close friend? And let's face it, you know you have a friend or two you wouldn't mind getting down and dirty with.

For some this is a perfect union. Since you are good friends, you already understand each other - physically, mentally and emotionally. It's less stressful than a committed relationship but more than just a booty call, and you can still lounge around watching movies on a Sunday afternoon. And there's no shopping for linens on the weekend or obligatory family affairs, since you're "just friends". But there is potential for some serious drama in this arrangement - so let's flush out some of the pros and cons.

PRO: It's Comfortable. The sex can be intimate and comfortable because the two of you are friends. There is none of the awkwardness of the random booty call or the elusive one-night stand.

CON: Deeper Feelings May Surface. Because you started off as friends there was already some sort of connection and you care for each other so it makes sense that one may begin to develop deeper feelings for the other. The longer you have been friends the more complicated it can be.

PRO: No Strings Attached. It is what it is. Not quite the booty call but not really a relationship - just some good ol' shaggin'. No need to deal with all the normal relationship woes.

CON: Jealousy. You're friends, so you talk about everything. He tells you about the ladies he's meeting, she tells you about the men (or boys - take your pick) she's metŠ And then it's all downhill from there. She gets jealous about a new lady friend you made or vice versa.

PRO: No More Searching. There's no need to be out and about searching for tail. No more buying drinks for the potentials or flirting your way through a bar. Friends with benefits are always just 10 digits away.

CON: You May Lose Each Other. It has happened - two friends hook up, it ends or someone stops the activity and then you never talk to them again.

The keys for this kind of match up is mutual understanding and to be open and honest with each other. Don't let the elephant in the room get the better of the two of you - you are friends so you should be able to talk about it. Having friends with benefits can be very fulfilling if those involved are clear about the situation. Understand where each other stands and this could be a perfect solution for all your sexual desires!

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