The Unspoken Challenges of Scheduled Intimacy

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When you’ve spent over a decade beside the same partner, it’s easy to assume that they’ll be there every night for the foreseeable future. This predictability creates a sense of complacency; if the moment arises when you think, “Maybe we should connect,” it’s tempting to shrug it off, thinking, “There’s always tomorrow.” But as those tomorrows accumulate, the frequency of intimacy dwindles, and you may find yourself longing for more connection, questioning how things reached this point.

If you’re like me and have a tendency to seek solutions, you might turn to relationship experts such as Kelly Anderson. Her insights on intimacy, particularly her encouragement of scheduled intimacy, have resonated with many. She suggests that planning for sex helps reinforce emotional bonds, much like the anticipation you felt when you were first dating. It’s akin to extended foreplay that can last anywhere from twenty minutes to a couple of days.

After a somewhat awkward yet endearing conversation with my partner about increasing our intimacy, we decided to set aside specific times for our intimate moments—aiming for at least once a week to avoid long gaps. Initially, we scheduled our “intimacy dates” for Wednesday afternoons while the kids were at school. However, as work commitments began to interfere, we shifted our rendezvous to Sunday evenings. Unfortunately, we soon found ourselves too drained from weekend activities to follow through. Despite having “Intimacy Time” marked on our calendars, the cancellations began to feel disheartening and, at times, even overwhelming.

For this plan to succeed, it’s crucial to honor these dates. Failing to do so not only undermines the purpose—having regular intimacy—but can also lead to hurt feelings and a temptation to abandon the effort entirely in favor of the comfort of doing nothing.

However, this isn’t the main issue I want to address. Recently, I found myself in a situation that exposed a critical flaw in our scheduling approach. While working from home and with the kids at school, I suddenly felt an intense desire for intimacy. Perhaps it was the warm weather or a fleeting thought about an old flame that sparked this urge. I texted my partner, “What’s your schedule like? Want to connect?” After an hour without a reply, he finally responded, “I have a meeting soon. How about tomorrow?”

While I accepted his suggestion and we enjoyed a brief encounter the next day, the experience left me feeling somewhat rejected. I rarely initiate intimacy, and when I do, I often face rejection. In that moment, though, it wasn’t just about the denial; it was about wanting connection immediately. Sure, I could have taken care of myself, but I craved the touch and intimacy of a partner.

This is one of the significant drawbacks of scheduling intimacy: it doesn’t always align with when you genuinely desire it. I can get into the mood when it’s marked on the calendar, but it pales in comparison to the thrill of spontaneous desire.

Long-term relationships come with their own set of complexities. The Coolidge Effect, a well-known phenomenon, illustrates how animals often become disinterested in their partners but regain their desire when a new mate is introduced. I can relate to that feeling. At a recent work event, I felt an overwhelming attraction to someone new. While I’ve never been unfaithful, in that moment, I sensed that I could indulge in that attraction without compromising my feelings for my partner.

This reflection has led me to reconsider traditional monogamy and ponder whether there’s room for new frameworks that allow for exploration without causing harm or mistrust. I’m contemplating how to embrace my sexuality in a way that nurtures both my individuality and my relationship.

Some might argue that what I seek is immature, suggesting that I need to embrace a more mature form of love that transcends the fiery passion of youth. While I acknowledge that lasting partnerships can evolve beyond initial lust, a part of me still yearns for that effortless, exhilarating desire. That part of me is not ready to let go.

Inspired by the more open attitudes toward sexuality exhibited by younger generations, I recognize that there are experiences I wish to explore that my partner may not provide—be it intimacy with a woman, a fleeting encounter with a stranger, or simply indulging in the thrill of attraction. I believe it’s possible to pursue these desires without sacrificing the strong bond I have with my partner. I haven’t found the solution yet, but I’m open to suggestions.

For more insights on related topics, check out this blog post or explore resources on artificial insemination kits. Additionally, Johns Hopkins Medicine offers excellent information on fertility and insemination.

Summary

The article discusses the challenges of scheduled intimacy in long-term relationships, highlighting how predictability can lead to decreased sexual frequency and spontaneity. It reflects on the emotional complexities of navigating desire, rejection, and the longing for connection amidst life’s demands. The author contemplates the balance between maintaining a solid relationship and exploring personal desires, inspired by contemporary views on sexuality.

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