‘Intermittent companionship’ is an original Sincerely, Divorced term we’ve coined to describe a way to approach dating after detoxing from the societal idea that falling madly in love and getting married should be the ultimate prize for a fulfilling life.

We use the term to decenter romantic relationships while also acknowledging a value and desire for healthy, vulnerable, and periodic romantic partnerships.

The foundation
Intermittent companionship acknowledges that a person has needs that only a romantic relationship can fulfill while determining that those needs (or the person fulfilling them) won’t consume their life, limit their independence, or have to be a part of their long-term future to be enjoyable, healthy, and worthwhile.

What it requires
Intermittent companionship is not a situationship, booty call, side piece, friends with benefits, ethical non-monogamy, or no strings attached. It’s a philosophy that goes beyond a glib description because it requires maturity and self-awareness which is generally (and unfortunately) often in short supply.

Making it happen
Intermittent companionship is an intimate relationship between mature people with mutual interests who value honesty, communication, and their independence. It’s where genuine friendship and physical attraction meet without assuming the pressure or expectation of building a life together. Finally, it’s a way to express and experience romantic appreciation.

Want to learn more about this approach to dating? Follow us on Instagram @sincerelydivorced.
Want to get more clear on your dating wants and needs post-divorce? Grab a copy of our new ebook ‘Dating After Divorce.’