Be honest - when you hear the words cheating or infidelity, you immediately associate it with the end of a relationship. However, it’s not always that simple. If you or your partner have cheated, it’s only natural to wonder if there is a chance that you could get through the current whirlwind of emotions you’re feeling and make it through the other end.
In this article, Ritual experts explore the complexities of cheating and infidelity in a relationship and cover the steps to repairing a relationship after infidelity to help you come to your answer to the ever-popular question: can a relationship survive cheating?
It might come as a surprise to most but cheating isn’t always a means to an automatic break-up, divorce, or separation. While infidelity can bring with it a whole host of (very warranted) negative emotions and feelings, and it will take hard work and commitment from both partners to get through to the other side, there are steps you can take to potentially mend your relationship after a partner has cheated.
It’s normal to feel emotionally devastated, shocked, angry, or a sense of betrayal; or maybe a mix of it all. Expect both you and your partner to go through a time of intense emotions which can make communicating challenging. Know that during this time, it’s crucial to allow for space for these emotions to be expressed and acknowledged before either of you tries to navigate what to do next.
How? Try practicing mindfulness through journaling. This can help you reflect on your feelings and emotions and better understand where you would like to go from here.
Cheating can stem from a variety of reasons including dissatisfaction in the relationship, lack of emotional or physical intimacy, personal insecurities, or even external factors such as stress or temptation. While understanding the cause doesn’t excuse the act, it can provide insight into the root issues that need to be addressed and whether or not you should move forward.
How? There are many reasons a partner may cheat and you can’t provide the answer. Your partner will need to dedicate time to self-reflection to understand the root cause.
Decided to move forward? Open and honest communication is key. You will both need to be willing to express your feelings, share your perspectives, and actively listen to each other without judgment. If you are struggling with this side of things, speak with an expert such as the relationship experts at Ritual who can help you navigate the emotional minefield that often accompanies cheating in a relationship.
How? If you seek expert help, follow and practice the strategies provided. In addition, try regularly checking in throughout the day and focus on being both heard and listened to.
Once trust is broken, it’s not that simple to restore. Rebuilding trust is a gradual process that requires commitment and effort from both partners. The unfaithful partner must be willing to take responsibility for their actions, express genuine remorse, and demonstrate a commitment to change. The other must find a way to forgive and be open to rebuilding trust over time.
How? Be patient and recognize that this will not happen overnight. Put time aside to regularly speak about your emotions. When you are both ready, redefine your ground rules.
Rebuilding a relationship after cheating requires setting clear boundaries and expectations. Both partners need to establish guidelines for behavior, communication, and rebuilding trust. This may involve renegotiating aspects of the relationship, such as levels of transparency, commitments to personal growth, and a shared vision for the future.
How? Communication is key here. Know your boundaries, communicate them, and stick to them.
Forgiveness is a crucial element in the process of healing after infidelity. It does not mean forgetting or condoning the act but rather releasing the hold that resentment and anger can have on the relationship. Forgiveness allows both partners to move forward, focusing on rebuilding the connection rather than dwelling on past mistakes.
How? Forgiveness is a process that doesn’t always come easy. Communication, regular check-ins, alone time, and time together should all be prioritized equally.
Not all relationships can or should survive cheating. The decision to work at it or finish is completely personal and depends on how willing each partner is to invest in the mending process. While some couples find they may emerge stronger, others realize that the damage is irreparable and choose to part ways.
If you decide to stay together after infidelity, remember:
Ritual is on a mission to make good relationship care accessible to all. Our model was designed to remove barriers like cost, tight schedules, and partner participation. We do that with scientifically validated methods, supported by the most up-to-date research from the strongest names in the field.
Here’s how it works:
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