Always ask before touching someone, and respect their answer every time. Check in during activity, ask what they want, and pause if they hesitate. No one owes anyone sexual access, no matter how long you've been together.
Ask first, respect the answer. Oh, you mean you want to kiss someone? Well, ask first and respect the answer. Before you touch someone? Yeah, ask first. Oh, you want to hug someone? Yeah, you still ask first. You don't assume. Well, before taking things further? Yeah, you still ask first. If they say yes to taking it further, ask what they want, not just what you want. If they hesitate, respect the answer. If they change their mind, respect the answer. If they hesitate in the middle of doing something, pause, check in, respect the answer. Ask if everything is okay. Ask if they would like you to stop or do something different. Ask whatever you What do you want to do with another person's body? You ask first. It's their body. And if their answer isn't what you hoped for, respect the answer. After all, they never owe you anything sexually. Whether you just met or you've been together for years, ask first, respect the answer. Every person, every time. Want more tips for helping people truly honor consent and respect in relationships? Let's talk. I work with schools, campuses, and the U.S. military across the globe. Would love to work with you. Reach out.
