157 What Is Compersion? with Author Marie Thouin

We talk about compersion a lot (duh, it’s awesome!!). But compersion is more than an emotion, and it’s more than the opposite of jealousy. Luckily, Marie Thouin (one of our podcast BFFs) returns to PWF to discuss her new book, What Is Compersion?, which dives into the complexities of compersion as a value system that does not have to be restricted to romantic relationships. In fact, we all have benefitted greatly from expanding the way that we understand and practice compersion to our platonic and professional relationships!

If compersion hasn’t clicked for you in the past, if you struggle with feelings of jealousy in your platonic, romantic, or professional relationships, or if you just want to nerd out with us about compersion, you don’t wanna skip this one! We draw on our personal experiences, academic research, and insights from coaching hundreds of people in the non-monogamy community.

In this episode, we talk about:

— Why compersion is more than just an emotion

— Compersion as a value vs. compersion as an escape

— Compersion myths, including the misconception that it can eliminate jealousy entirely

— The power of applying the concept of compersion to non-romantic relationships, and how that can be a huge opportunity for personal growth

— Compersion vs. jealousy vs. envy

— Addressing personal challenges in feeling compersion, particularly in friendships, and overcoming envy and competitiveness

— Discussing practical ways to cultivate compersion in daily life and relationships

— Why compersion doesn’t mean the absence of jealousy, as emotions are fluid and contextual

— Integrating academic research, coaching, and personal experience to better understand and teach compersion

Resources mentioned in this episode:

— Marie Thouin's new book "What is Compersion" is available for pre-order!

— Check out Marie’s website whatiscompersion.com for information about her research, blogs, and a list of resources on compersion

— Follow Marie’s Instagram account @loveinsightdating

— Book a FREE 30-minute introductory coaching call with Marie

Join the global Week of Visibility for Non-monogamy – July 15-21. Visit www.weekofvisibility.com to learn more and get involved!

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Read the transcript of this episode here

Music: Dance of Felt by ⁠Blue Dot Sessions