Think about what you’re missing out on, such as stability, consistency, or honesty. Even if you’re in a different situation from the spouse, you can still imagine what they’re going through. You actually show more empathy when you express care for people who aren’t exactly like you. [2] X Research source When you put your affair partner’s family first, you help them heal.

“They never take me out. Does that feel good? No, it doesn’t. ” “They’re a no-show for half of our dates. Is that okay with me? No, it isn’t. “[7] X Expert Source Laura RicherLicensed Mental Health Counselor Expert Interview. 24 September 2021. “They only call when they want to hook up. Is that what I want? No, I don’t. ” “Do they make me feel cherished? Not really. This isn’t working for me anymore. ”[8] X Expert Source Laura RicherLicensed Mental Health Counselor Expert Interview. 24 September 2021.

“I thought about this a lot, and I know what’s best for me. I can’t see you anymore. ” “I want what’s healthy for me, so I’m ending this. ” “This has gone on for too long. I deserve better. ”

“3 days after I broke up with them, they texted me. I had to block them. ” “It’s been 2 weeks since we’ve talked. I’m a little sad, but I know this is for the best. ” “A whole month has gone by! I already feel a lot better. ”

“You won’t change my mind. ” “Please stop contacting me. ” “I have different standards for myself now. ”

Go for a run with a buddy. You’ll be able to exercise and socialize at the same time. Treat yourself to a warm bubble bath. You can also splurge a little on a massage. Try out some fun new hobbies. For example, you can pick up dancing or painting.

Identify friends and family who are judgement-free. They should accept all parts of your life. Join a meet-up group where you can make new friends and start fresh. Read biographies or other writings of former “other women. ” You may feel solidarity with them.

Get creative. For example, you can learn to write poetry or play the guitar. Be active. For instance, you can take Pilates or kickboxing classes. Stay curious. You can dive into a new subject like fashion history or even learn a language.

“I met them when I felt insecure. I want to date again when I feel really confident. ” “They made me feel important, but they didn’t make me a priority. I want to be someone’s #1. ” “I got a rush when I was with them, and then I’d crash. I want something stable, instead. ”

You’ll likely learn about how your childhood or family has an effect on the people you pursue. They’ll listen to you without any judgment. They’ve had clients in similar situations and just want to help. You can keep going to your sessions even when you’re ready to date again. If you stop going, you can return to therapy if you start to think about the affair again.

“I made a mistake, but that’s in the past. I am wiser now, and I respect all my new choices. ” “I am a very giving and caring person. I ended things for myself and their family. ” ”That was a long time ago. I did all I could to make things right. ”

“I believe in standing up for people in need. I’ll be a strong advocate for change. ” “I’ll surround myself with people who aren’t afraid to be themselves. ” “Every day is a new chance to be my best self. ”