This is a question which may be pertinent to many people on here. My girlfriend and I (both 23) are beginning to explore the lifestyle, currently with her just speaking to other guys online (usually much older), and trying to set realistic boundaries for each other. It is something that has turned me on for a long time and she is very into the idea as well. The question of how to assess how ready one is to take it further is, in my opinion, a big one.

What are everybody's thoughts on how to assess one's own emotions? I currently will experience a mix of extreme arousal with a little fear or anxiety in the mix too. I have moved from ignoring the thought of my girlfriend with other men after an I've had an orgasm to trying to figure out if I can make the arrangement acceptable without the arousal. My main concern is I have no idea what is 'normal' or beneficial to feel when no longer aroused, and how that catharsis post-orgasm links to my readiness to make fantasy reality.

Anybody's thoughts or advice would be welcome!