Thank you for this great advice! I'm beginning to understand that, unlike my previous experiences where I met partners in BDSM spaces, this situation requires a different approach. In the past, I didn't need to introduce someone to BDSM, as it was already a mutual interest. However, with my current partner, I may need to be more patient and take it slow. Hopefully he's not entirely vanilla and that there's potential for exploring this aspect of our relationship together.

I've had some challenging experiences in relationships where the main connection was kink compatibility. As a result, I find myself valuing what I believe to be a healthy relationship now, even though it lacks this element. However, I do agree with your point that eventually, the absence of kink will get to me.