Responding to someone who says they are looking for a friend with benefits (FWB) relationship depends on your own personal feelings and desires. Here are a few possible responses to consider:
Honesty and Respect: Be honest about your own feelings and intentions. If you're open to the idea, you can say something like, "I appreciate your honesty, and I'm open to exploring that kind of relationship if we both feel comfortable with it."
Clear Boundaries: If you're not interested in an FWB relationship, it's important to communicate your boundaries clearly but respectfully. You might say, "I'm looking for something more serious and emotionally connected right now, so I don't think an FWB arrangement would be the right fit for me."
Reflection and Time: If you're unsure about what you want, it's okay to take some time to reflect on your feelings before responding. You can say, "I need some time to think about it and consider if this is something I'm comfortable with."
Respectful Decline: If the idea of an FWB relationship doesn't align with your values or desires, you can simply decline politely: "Thank you for sharing your thoughts, but I'm not interested in pursuing an FWB relationship."
Whether or not an FWB relationship makes sense is subjective and depends on the individuals involved. Some people are comfortable with and enjoy casual, no-strings-attached arrangements, while others may find it challenging or unsatisfying. It's essential for both parties to be on the same page, communicate openly, and respect each other's boundaries and feelings. If one person is looking for something more serious or emotionally connected while the other is seeking a casual arrangement, it's likely not going to be a suitable match. The key is to find someone whose relationship goals and expectations align with your own.