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Meaning and Examples of Platonic Friendships and How to Make it Work.

An Overview of Platonic Friendship:

The sign of heart by platonic friends
Photo by Matt Nelson on Unsplash.

"We are platonic friends, but she's not giving me sex!"... You need this!! Everyone needs this.


Platonic friendship comes with several misconceptions and many theories about what it is. It can be tasking to maintain because feelings may set in. I got you.


We all have friends we love and play with intimately but never think of dating. Do you? (Let me know in the comments).


In this post, I talk about the meaning and examples of platonic friendship, what it entails, and popular misconceptions.


What is Platonic Friendship?

Image by Congerdesign on Pixabay

Platonic friendship is a relationship between two people with a deep connection who are attracted to each other. It is intimate but not sexual. The bond feels like romance but without sexual interest.


In a platonic relationship, there is usually a high level of trust, mutual vulnerability, and reciprocated time and affection.


At some point, either party may feel a somewhat sexual connection. Resisting these feelings and keeping the friendship makes it remain platonic. That is not to say platonic friendship cannot lead to relationships.


Misconceptions About Platonic Friendship

Two Female Platonic Friends Laughing Happily
Image by Stocksnap

Some of the misconceptions are because people fail to understand that:


  • Platonic friendship is not the same as Friends with Benefits.
  • It is not a pre-dating exercise.
  • It is not to make up a break-up.
  • It is not sexual.


A synonym for platonic friendships should be besties, but the 21st-century community has made it a sexual term.


How To Make Platonic Friendship Work

  • Show up for each other and reciprocate the vibe.
  • Create boundaries: leave sex out and reduce flirtation.
  • Ensure communication and honesty.


What To Do If They Have a Partner:


  • Don't bad-mouth their relationship.
  • Be supportive.
  • Build a mutual bond with their partners also.


What To Do If You Have a Partner:


  • Spend time in groups. It would make them know your friend and not feel excluded.
  • Create a balance; don't undermine your friendship or relationship.
  • Maintain honesty and communication on both ends.


In essence, platonic friendship should not be a problem if profoundly understood and managed.


P.S: Platonic friendship could be between the same gender.


Thank you for reading!💙 We would love to hear your feedback. Kindly make your point of view known in the COMMENTS.


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Comments

Unknown said…
I am taking note of only that "ps"😂
Kadijat said…
Honestly, this is an amazing piece.
What got me was the part about friends with benefits.
Unknown said…
Hmm. Now I understand. Thanks for sharing, Gates.
Anonymous said…
Hmmm
Thanks for shedding more light
Unknown said…
Hmmmm

This is so nice Gates.Truth be told,I learnt something new after reading this piece.
More of grace


Anonymous said…
Honestly,light had been shed on platonic friendship. Bond with their partners if they have. Thanks Gates

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