

Beyond this, it might not be obvious what other options exist. The "Relationship Escalator" is the traditional bundle of social norms for intimate relationships: monogamy, cohabitation and much more, ideally until death do you part.


Options that don't involve lying, cheating, affairs, infidelity, avoiding dating or relationships, swearing off sex or love, or not being true to yourself or others. However, there are plenty of other great ways to do relationships. Good thing we have options! Most people assume that healthy or serious relationships which involve romance and sex are supposed to follow this path: from attraction and dating, through exclusivity and living together, to marriage that ideally lasts a lifetime. Love and relationships are not one-size-fits-all.
