Effective communication is the foundation of Permission Play. To make discussing intimacy, desires, and boundaries easier, we use the Yes / Maybe / No System—a clear, simple, and judgment-free way to navigate consent.
By providing three straightforward responses, this system fosters mutual understanding, respect, and exploration, ensuring that both partners feel heard and empowered.
What Is the Yes / Maybe / No System?
The Yes / Maybe / No System helps individuals express their comfort levels in an easy and natural way. Instead of vague hints or misinterpretations, partners can clearly communicate their interest or hesitation.
The Three Responses:
✅ Yes – “I’m fully on board and excited to explore this!”
🤔 Maybe – “I’m open to discussing this, but I have conditions or reservations.”
❌ No – “This is outside my comfort zone, and I don’t want to engage in it.”
This system allows couples to explore intimacy without pressure, helping them navigate new experiences while respecting each other’s boundaries.
Why Use the Yes / Maybe / No System?
The Yes / Maybe / No System is designed to remove uncertainty from consent conversations and make them feel more natural and engaging. It ensures that both partners feel safe, respected, and free to explore their desires without fear of judgment.
Benefits of the System:
✔ Quick and easy to use – A simple yet effective way to express comfort levels.
✔ Encourages open discussion – “Maybe” provides space for negotiation and curiosity.
✔ Eliminates pressure – A “No” is respected without guilt, and a “Maybe” allows for discussion.
✔ Makes consent playful and engaging – Turns boundaries into an open and positive conversation.
How the 5-Star System on LystListen.dk Translates to Yes / Maybe / No
On LystListen.dk, we use a 5-Star Consent System that allows users to rate their comfort levels with more nuance. In Permission Play, we translate those ratings into Yes / Maybe / No for simplified real-time communication:
- ⭐ 1 (Not at all) → No ❌
- ⭐⭐ 2 & ⭐⭐⭐ 3 (A little / Moderately) → Maybe 🤔
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 & ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 (A lot / Extremely) → Yes ✅
This system ensures that individuals can privately explore their desires using the 5-star system on LystListen.dk and later use Yes / Maybe / No for interactive conversations with a partner.
How to Use the Yes / Maybe / No System in Permission Play
1. Start with Open Communication
- Before trying something new, discuss what each of you is interested in.
- Use the Yes / Maybe / No responses to express your comfort level.
2. Use “Maybe” as a Discussion Space – This is where the magic happens!
- If one partner says “Maybe,” explore what would make it feel safer or more enjoyable.
- Ask questions like:
- “What would make this feel like a ‘Yes’ for you?”
- “Are there adjustments or boundaries that would make you feel more comfortable?”
3. Always Respect a ‘No’
- A “No” means No—without guilt, pressure, or persuasion.
- Permission Play is about honoring boundaries, not pushing limits.
4. Check In Regularly
- Preferences and comfort levels can change over time.
- Regularly revisit conversations to ensure both partners still feel the same way.
Examples of the Yes / Maybe / No System in Action
Example 1: Exploring a New Activity
- Partner A: “How do you feel about trying this?”
- Partner B: “Maybe – I like the idea, but I have some conditions.”
- Partner A: “Let’s talk about what would make it feel better for you.”
Example 2: Setting Clear Boundaries
- Partner A: “Are you interested in this experience?”
- Partner B: “No – that’s not something I feel comfortable with.”
- Partner A: “Got it. Thanks for letting me know!”
Example 3: Enthusiastic Consent
- Partner A: “What about this idea?”
- Partner B: “Yes! I’d love to try that!”
- Partner A: “Great, let’s make it happen!”
Permission Play: Making Consent Clear, Playful, and Empowering
The Yes / Maybe / No System makes consent easy to discuss, turning it into a natural and engaging conversation rather than an awkward or difficult topic. By encouraging openness, curiosity, and mutual respect, Permission Play helps couples explore intimacy safely and confidently.
Ready to try Permission Play?
Use the Yes / Maybe / No System to create deeper trust, stronger communication, and more fulfilling experiences with your partner!
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Explore intimacy with clarity, confidence, and playfulness—start your journey with Permission Play today!
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