1. A Boundary Checklist for an FWB Situation

A. Emotional Boundaries

• ☐ Are we both seeking something non-romantic?
• ☐ Are we okay maintaining our regular friendship outside of intimacy?
• ☐ How affectionate are we comfortable being (cuddling, texting daily, etc.)?
• ☐ Are we okay spending the night, or is it strictly “hang out then go home”?
• ☐ What emotional responsibilities do we not want (e.g., regular dates, holiday expectations)?

B. Physical & Sexual Boundaries

• ☐ Are there any activities one of us isn’t comfortable with?
• ☐ How often do we expect to meet up?
• ☐ Are spontaneous hookups okay, or should everything be planned?

C. Social Boundaries

• ☐ Should our friends know?
• ☐ Are we okay hanging out in group settings like normal?
• ☐ Are there any behaviors in public that feel too “couple-like”?

D. Lifestyle & Time Boundaries

• ☐ Are we okay with late-night texts, or should contact happen earlier?
• ☐ What happens if one of us starts dating someone else?
• ☐ How do we handle changes in schedules, stress, or emotional bandwidth?

E. Exit Plan

• ☐ How do we end this in a way that protects the friendship?
• ☐ Should we do regular check-ins (e.g., every 2–4 weeks)?

This checklist ensures clarity and protects the connection—both the friendship and the arrangement.

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2. A Sample Script for a Boundary Conversation

Below is a natural, pressure-free script you can modify. It works whether you’re starting the FWB or adjusting one.

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“Hey, I’m really enjoying our friendship and I want to make sure this is comfortable and positive for both of us.”
“Can we talk for a few minutes about what we both want and don’t want? I think it’ll make everything smoother.”

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Emotional Expectations

“Just so I’m clear: I’m looking for something fun and casual, without the expectations of dating. Is that how you feel too?”
“What does ‘casual’ mean for you? For me, it means no exclusive relationship expectations, but still being respectful and thoughtful.”

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Social Boundaries

“How private do you want this to be? I’m okay keeping it low-key, but I’m fine if close friends know too.”
“When we’re with other people, do we act like normal friends?”

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Timing & Logistics

“How do you feel about late-night texts? Should we plan things ahead of time or keep it spontaneous?”

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Exit Plan

“And if either of us starts catching feelings or dating someone else, let’s agree to talk about it honestly. I’d rather protect our friendship than let things get messy.”

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This script is direct but kind, non-awkward, and creates space for the other person to express their needs.

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3. How to End an FWB Gracefully

Ending an FWB does NOT have to be dramatic or uncomfortable. The key principles are:

A. Be honest, not apologetic

You don’t have to justify your feelings. Something simple works:

“I’ve really enjoyed this, but I feel like it’s time for me to shift out of the physical part of things.”

B. Give a reason without over-explaining

Acceptable reasons include:

• You’re catching feelings
• They’re catching feelings
• You’re starting to date someone
• You’re mentally/emotionally busy
• It’s simply run its course

You’re not obligated to provide more detail than you want.

C. Reaffirm the friendship

This helps preserve the connection.

“I value our friendship a lot, and I want to make sure we keep that intact.”

D. Offer space if needed

Sometimes things recalibrate naturally.

“If you need a little space to adjust, I completely get it.”

E. Follow through on the boundaries

If physical intimacy ends, don’t send mixed signals.

Example Script (Friendly & Mature)

“I’ve really liked what we’ve had, but I think I need to end the FWB part. I want to make sure our friendship stays solid, and I feel like this is the right time. You’re important to me, and I want us to keep things good between us.”

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4. Signs an FWB Might Be Turning Into Something Else

Here are the biggest indicators that the dynamic is shifting toward emotional attachment or developing into a pseudo-relationship.

A. Emotional Attachment Signs

• You miss them emotionally, not just physically
• You catch yourself wanting to impress them or make them happy
• You feel jealous when they date or talk to others
• One or both of you start prioritizing each other over other potential partners

B. Behavioral Signs

• You’re spending time together outside of sex—movies, errands, chill nights
• Sleepovers become more frequent and affectionate
• You talk every day or update each other like a couple
• You start doing “relationship-style” things (buying gifts, making plans in advance, etc.)

C. Social Signs

• Friends start asking if you’re dating
• You show a level of physical affection in public
• You start meeting each other’s close friends or family more often

D. Emotional Discomfort Signs

• You feel anxious if they don’t text back
• You’re thinking about exclusivity
• You start imagining a future with them

E. Direct Statements

Sometimes it’s obvious:

• They say they “feel something”
• You notice your feelings growing
• They express interest in taking things further

If even 2 or 3 of these signs show up consistently, it’s worth having a conversation to see what direction both of you want to go.