Category: D/s, Power Play
Subcategory: Competition

with self

Self-competition in power exchange involves setting personal challenges, benchmarks, or goals that push the individual to exceed their previous limitations. This might include endurance tests, skill development, or breaking personal records in service or submission activities, all tracked and measured against one's own past performance.

Many enjoy this form of competition for the focused self-improvement it encourages without external comparison. It creates personal accountability while still operating within the power dynamic, allowing submissives to demonstrate dedication through measurable growth and dominants to witness tangible progress. The satisfaction comes from surpassing one's own boundaries rather than competing against others, creating a deeply personal journey of development within the D/s framework.

← Previous: Competition
Next: with others →

This is a description of an activity in the BDSM checklist (also known as a 'kink list'). Want to discover what (more) kinks you might have? Maybe share them with a partner? Start the checklist!

About the category D/s, Power Play

Dominance and submission (D/s) and power play revolve around the consensual exchange of control between partners. This dynamic can manifest in countless ways—from bedroom-only scenarios to comprehensive lifestyle arrangements—all centered on one partner taking a controlling role while the other yields authority within negotiated boundaries.

People are drawn to power exchange for diverse reasons: the freedom found in surrender, the thrill of exercising control, the deep trust required, and the opportunity to explore aspects of themselves not expressed in everyday life. Unlike physical BDSM activities which focus on bodily sensations, D/s emphasizes psychological connection and the erotic potential of power differentials, creating experiences that many find deeply fulfilling on both emotional and sexual levels.

About the subcategory Competition

Competition in power exchange involves structured challenges where participants strive to excel within defined parameters. This can create dynamic tension and motivation that enhances power dynamics, whether competing against personal limits, directly with others, or specifically among submissives.

People enjoy competitive elements for how they objectively demonstrate devotion or skill while adding unpredictability to power structures.



All activities in the checklist: