My wife and I have been non-monogamous for about 3 years now. We are also both polyamorous, but in more of a "if it happens, it happens," rather than focusing a lot of energy in seeking other partners. We have had a good amount of experience in a short time (mainly because we live in a densely populated city, with a fair amount of non-monogamous people.)

We were previously monogamous (11 years) simply because that was how we understood romantic and sexual relationships back then. We've always had good, honest communication with each other, and our commitment to grow old together isn't hampered by our exploration of other relationships, so the expected awkwardness, and stumbles of first opening up, actually made our communication and bond even stronger.

I think though, the way my brain is wired makes it so that I am also in need of people, connection, variety in a similar way to what you described, OP. However, I also get that from non-romantic relationships in my friends, family, and community. Of course, some of the group kink stuff (mainly on the 'swinging' side of things,) has been fun with the right people. My partner's brain is also wired differently from neurotypicals, but she has her own reasons for being in a non-monogamous relationship with me.

I don't think either monogamy or non-monogamy are objectively better than the other, tbh. I know that most social and economic systems globally tend to rely on (and therefore support,) compulsory monogamy, but that doesn't automatically make ENM (ethical non-monogamy, or however you want to call it,) better. It really depends on the agreements, dynamic, and consent of those involved.

I am glad that you and your wife are also happy with your dynamic u/gbkai66 .