I’m struggling with the giant divide in the, shall we say, amorous appetite between my spouse (mid-30’s F) and me (mid-30’s M).
Due to dissimilar but equally traumatic backgrounds, we have very different opinions of sex (and physical expression of affection in general) in utility, execution, and significance. I am exceedingly (and uncomfortably, for her) voracious/enthusiastic, whereas she is almost painfully hesitant and reluctant.
I’ve recently started learning to address this by trying to understand her perspective more, but there’s still a long way to go, as healthy communication about this topic is in its infancy, after nearly a decade together. As well, I’m learning to be more introspective about my own motivations.
However, I can’t help the feeling (as I go through my process) that I am putting more emphasis on learning to suppress my needs (for physical affection) than actually getting my needs met. Akin to telling a starving man to “learn to be not hungry” rather than giving him anything to eat.
I’m sure there’s a middle ground, but I don’t know how to get there on my own. I don’t want to be disrespectful of my wife’s feelings, and I don’t want to be so dependent on sex to feel good in my relationship (but old habits die hard).
I’m here to see if anyone has a suggestion, a lesson learned from their own experience, or just anything that might help.
If you both have a traumatic background, you should probably see a sex therapist, both of you. There’s also a good book called come as you are by Emily Nagoski could be helpful to read.
I personally have had similar issues, and my beat advice is to be open with your partner about how you feel, and have an open dialog about it. You may not find it easy to discuss, you may even fight about it before it gets better. Regardless, I feel where you’re xoming from and I wish you the best navigating this.
I agree that we both need to go through a healing program or exercise. I think I’m impatient and maybe a little resentful because I am actively pursuing self healing techniques, whereas she has all but admitted she hasn’t bothered. Also, as I mentioned, communication about this is nascent and superficial so far.
I’ll try the book recommendation, I think that one has been suggested to me before.
I understand being impatient. I’ve felt that way myself. It’s a sucky feeling. Hopefully you two figure it out.