What Is Serial Monogamy: How It Works & 23 Signs of a Serial Monogamist

Is serial monogamy a norm or are humans just strange? Learn the pattern and signs of a serial monogamist in a relationship to find out if you’re one! 

As humans, we’re never ever satisfied with anything – we always want more. You could argue that’s why so many people struggle with the idea of serial monogamy. However, for as many people who struggle with it, there are just as many, if not more, who thrive on it.

Are you someone who has had a series of long-term relationships? Are you hanging on to an unhappy relationship because you fear being alone? Do you notice a pattern when it comes to the people you date? If you’re nodding along, then you may be a serial monogamist. 

You might wonder why it’s a bad thing. If you’re monogamous, that means you’re not cheating on anyone, right? Well, yes, but you have to question your motives.

Sometimes being single is a good thing. It helps you to focus on what you want and allows you to find someone who suits your values in life. [Read: Top 20 reasons for divorce that most couples overlook]

What is serial monogamy all about?

A monogamous partnership is one where both partners are truly committed to each other, and intend to stay together, for better or for worse.

Serial monogamy is the same thing, but instead of focusing on staying together for life, serial monogamists live for the moment.

A serial monogamist may experience several romantic relationships over a short period of time, but at no point in time does this person ever cheat on a partner.

Simply put, a serial monogamist is a person who stays in the relationship for as long as they feel the infatuation, excitement and love, and walks away into someone else’s arms when they start to get bored of the relationship. [Read: 34 reasons why you could get bored of your relationship]

But, serial monogamists are not cheaters. They take the higher moral ground and walk away when they’re not interested in their previous relationship instead of cheating or enduring a tough period.

Serial monogamy and our lives

For all of us, life is too short, and we’re just not ready to compromise anymore. And in a world where instant gratification isn’t fast enough, would you be willing to work on a relationship for years to fix it? Or would you intentionally put up with an incompatible partner just because it’s taboo in society to break away and find someone else?

Someone once said that the best way to get over someone is by getting under someone else. So instead of dealing with a painful relationship, isn’t it easier to find someone else as soon as the passion of new romance dies away? [Read: 15 signs you’re jumping from one relationship to another too soon]

But of course, like anything in life, serial monogamy has its pros and cons.

The pros of serial monogamy

1. You’re never unfaithful, making you a trustworthy partner

2. You develop strong and serious relationships which enrich your life [Read: What makes a good relationship? 30 Signs of a great relationship]

3. You learn a lot about who you are in a relationship and what you can give to a partner

4. You learn about what you will and won’t put up with in a relationship 

The cons of serial monogamy

1. Relationships don’t tend to last too long, meaning they fizzle out before they really get a chance to start

2. You become bored quickly and move on [Read: The 9 main relationship stages every couple goes through

3. You don’t have time to enjoy the single life and learn about who you are as an individual

4. It could be that you’re using serial monogamy as a mask for something else, e.g. lack of confidence, which is unhealthy

Is serial monogamy a conscious choice or just an accident?

It can be either. Some people choose to be serial monogamists. They prefer this because it allows them to have the security of being in a relationship. But for some, they know it doesn’t mean forever.

You could argue that, in some ways, it’s a form of casual dating because the monogamist knows that they won’t stay with that person, but they’re not sleeping around either. As the name suggests, a serial monogamist is exactly that – monogamous and never cheats. [Read: Seriously, can someone please define monogamy?]

However, for some, it’s just that they adore being in love and can’t help but fall for people easily. That in itself can be a problem. The feeling of being in love and all the wonderful things it brings is meant to be because you’ve met someone special.

So, what’s the psychology behind it? For some, it’s a choice, for others, it’s an unconscious thing that they do without understanding why.

Now, we’re certainly not downplaying the good sides of being a serial monogamist. Fair play for being so faithful, but you do need to know that your motivation is positive and not because you’re simply uncomfortable being alone. [Read: What is cheating in a relationship? The truth most people ignore]

The pattern of serial monogamy – Are you one?

A serial monogamist is easy to identify. They’re the kind that usually falls in love with someone else when they’re already in another long-term relationship with someone. If you meet someone who almost jumps into relationships even before they break up with their ex, that’s a sure sign of a serial monogamist.

Not every person who is a serial monogamist is bad, it’s just that they always want more out of love. So, does this apply to you? Read the following signs of a serial monogamist and work out whether you have some work to do. [Read: Love triangles and its confusing complications]

1. You start and form relationships easily

Some may even think too easily. A serial monogamist doesn’t have any trouble finding someone to date. There is normally instant chemistry between the two of you, which may even have you easily smitten by them.

However, you often commit too soon. Shortly after meeting this person, you’re quick to call them your boyfriend or girlfriend.

There sometimes may even be talk early about moving in together and marriage. You eventually end up revolving your whole world around this other person.

You want to know EVERYTHING there is to know about them: cats or dogs? Hot or cold? Hamburger or hot dog? And that’s all great, but often in the process, you start to lose a bit of your identity in the relationship – that’s not so great. [Read: The biggest reasons why saying ‘I love you’ too soon sucks!]

2. You really hate dating

We mean, who doesn’t? However, you are someone who will avoid it at all costs. Although you like the idea of dating, when it comes to actually trying it on, you can’t stand it. You need to be with one person, exclusively.

It’s not that you don’t only like being in a relationship, but you actually prefer it. You enjoy the physical intimacy a relationship can offer.

Although you have tried dating multiple people, you find yourself interested in only one particular person.

3. You have hardly been single, or maybe even never

Are you someone who hangs onto a relationship as long as it’s possible *even if you’re unhappy* because the thought of being alone is far worse than being in a sour relationship? Do you fear that you might be alone forever?

If you’re the type to bounce from one relationship to the next and spend as little time as possible being single in between, that’s one of the signs of a serial monogamist.

It’s quite common for serial monogamists to have to be with someone to feel complete. But there’s likely a void that you are using another person to fill.

Perhaps you’re insecure and need constant attention and approval from the opposite sex. This only proves that you’re not ready to be in another relationship. [Read: To cheat or not to cheat? A guide to make up your mind]

4. After a breakup, you’re quickly onto the next person

This likely ties into why you’re never *or hardly* single for long. You are constantly on the rebound, and believe the quickest way to get over someone is to get under someone else.

Sometimes, when serial monogamists start to feel things fizzle with their current partner, they will keep their options open. They will start looking for other prospects, even before things have ended, just to be ready. [Read: 18 subtle signs you’re already having an emotional affair with someone without even realizing it!]

5. You choose quantity over quality in a relationship 

At first, things are probably wonderful for you. There’s undeniable chemistry with the other person, but it ends very quickly. You not only go from one relationship to the next, but they’re generally short-lived. This is because your expectations are way too low, and you are experiencing some attachment issues.

Since you’re someone who is scared of being alone, it’s inevitable that you put quality aside and take whoever comes your way next. But for your own good, you really need to learn to be more selective in the dating process. [Read: 22 early warning signs of a bad new partner]

6. You’re a romantic at heart

It’s true. You believe in the notion of one true love, and being with one person for the rest of your life. If you can’t see yourself with your current partner for the rest of your life, you end things. This could be why your relationships, although exclusive, are so short-lived.

However, you are always actively seeking that one person for you. Every time you meet someone new, you’re always so sure this is the one.

But then a new prospect comes along, and the process starts all over again. [Read: The single’s guide to creating a perfect romantic meet cute in your life]

7. Deep down, you want to be in a committed relationship, but you find yourself not able to take that next step 

Don’t get us wrong, serial monogamists want to commit to a long-term relationship. You truly want to take the first step into a committed relationship, whether it’s moving in together or getting married, but for some reason, you can’t.

After reaching a certain point in the relationship *maybe after a few months, or even a year or two*, things start to dwindle. You may feel trapped and almost claustrophobic with someone. The arguments ensue.

Why is this? It’s likely because you either fear abandonment or the emotional intimacy a relationship has to offer. So, in the end, you call it quits. That’s one of the major signs of a serial monogamist. [Read: 10 sure signs you’ve got the fear of long-term commitment]

8. There’s more of a physical connection than an emotional one 

Do you have this need to give physical affection to someone? Perhaps even crave it? Is your relationship based more on a physical level than an emotional one? This could be another of the traits of a serial monogamist.

If you can’t connect with your mate on an emotional level, it’s going to be hard to continue it.

9. You generally find being alone quite uncomfortable

A serial monogamist often has difficulty with independence. That doesn’t mean you’re likely to need someone by your side all the time, but you may find the idea of being on your own quite uncomfortable.

This is probably one of the most worrying signs to recognize because it pinpoints a negative reason for your behavior.

Being on your own isn’t a bad thing, even if it’s just to go to the store or head out for a meal alone. It gives you time to think and process the day. [Read: Fear of being alone – How to let go of your fear and find peace]

10. The really serious parts of a relationship are quite terrifying to you

As we’ve already mentioned, it’s not that a serial monogamist doesn’t want to take the plunge, it’s that there’s something stopping them from taking it over the line.

If the serious things in a relationship make you break out in a cold sweat, perhaps that should ring alarm bells. We’re talking about things like making long-term plans, meeting the parents, or even moving in together. 

11. You don’t really take the time to find out about your partner’s relationships in the past

Not that you should actually care too much about whether or not your partner has a long dating history or not, but you should at least take the time to explore the things they tell you. For instance, are they divorced? Were they cheated on in the past and it could be a reason why they’re a little hesitant at the start?

These are all details that help you to get to know your partner better and enhance your relationship as a result. When you don’t take the time to find out, it’s because you’re not intending to stick around and are just contented with casually dating someone for as long as it lasts. [Read: How to talk about a past relationship with your partner]

12. You don’t actually get to know your partner that well

This one sounds odd, right? Many serial monogamists often love the idea of being in love, but that’s the problem. They love the idea, but not the actual practice.

You can love someone properly until you get to know them, warts and all, and share your thoughts, dreams, and stories.

If you don’t take the time to do that, or you jump in too quickly, you really don’t know this person at all. Yet another of the clear signs of a serial monogamist.

13. You have grand ideas of love

We’ve mentioned that a serial monogamist is romantic, but it’s quite likely that your idea of love is unrealistic.

You have that Disney love in your mind, and when real life doesn’t quite live up to it, you become annoyed, disillusioned and decide that there’s something wrong with your relationship.

Of course, that leads you to move on to the next one, constantly chasing your romantic ideal. [Read: 20 Secrets that will help you find the one]

14. Your friends can’t remember who you’re dating

This isn’t because they don’t care, but because they’ve lost count and can’t keep up! That’s a pretty solid sign of a serial monogamist and one that you shouldn’t actually be that proud of.

Don’t let your partner hear your friends mention their lack of knowledge about your current relationship. Not only is it hurtful, but it will lead them to question your motives and commitment to them. 

15. You find the honeymoon period a serious thrill

Perhaps you hate dating, but you love the honeymoon period. You skip past the confusing dating part, and you’re straight into those crazy, butterfly-laden early days when everything is hearts and roses. For you, this is a serious thrill and something that you find quite addictive.

Once the relationship settles down and becomes more mundane, as it always will at some point, you move on. [Read: 13 signs the honeymoon phase is starting to wane in your eyes]

Serial monogamy isn’t all glorious

Serial monogamy may be fun and high-inducing. But a relationship based on selfish needs can be toxic and harmful for both partners, and is never going last forever, is it?

If both romantic partners don’t work hard to make each other happy and don’t believe in unconditionally loving each other, flaws and all, they may become selfish and self-centered. They’re only bothered about satisfying their own needs— romantically and sexually.

A relationship takes a bit of effort and understanding throughout the years. And if both partners don’t want to give, but only want to receive, nor do they make an effort to address their underlying issues, the relationship is doomed to fail from the very beginning.

In cases like this, you can consider getting therapy with the assistance of a certified relationship coach, therapist, licensed counselor, or mental health professional can help. [Read: 25 relationship rules to have a successful romance]

Serial monogamy and monogamy – Whatever works for you

Serial monogamy is easier on the heart, especially if you start looking for a new person to date the very next day after your breakup. You can avoid all heartbreak within a few days and cover it all up with a brand new romance and/or happy infatuation in no time.

On the other hand, a monogamous relationship may need a bit of effort after several years to keep it exciting, but it keeps you emotionally stable and secure.

There’s a bit of good on both sides. But which would you prefer if you had the choice?

[Read: How to have a monogamous relationship with a sexy polygamous twist]

So what do you like more, a series of sexual infatuations or long-term emotional stability? The answer to this question can tell you what you are, a monogamous lover or a true believer of serial monogamy.