What are the signs that your partner is cheating? What are the red flags? The signs of cheating look different in every relationship but there are common elements that are often present. First and foremost: If your gut tells you that your partner is cheating, it may be right. Here are a few signs to look for:
Improved appearance. If your significant other suddenly starts exercising and eating healthier, that could be a sign that they are trying to appear more attractive—that someone might be you, or it could be someone else!
Periods where your significant other is unreachable. When a partner is cheating, they are less likely to answer your calls, respond to DMs or texts. Look out for “legitimate-sounding excuses”–they were in a meeting, were driving, were in a “dead zone” and didn’t know you were trying to get in touch. Also, if your partner is unreachable while working late or away on a business trip that may signal extracurricular activities with another person.
Changes in sex. Significantly less, more, or sudden changes in sex in your relationship may be a sign. If your partner is introducing new techniques and activities into your sex life that could be another clue. Even though these changes may be enjoyable, it is also possible these skills are being developed outside the relationship.
What should you do next if you notice these signs and think your partner is cheating?
No one begins a relationship expecting that their partner will cheat. If you suspect or have proof that your partner has cheated on you, it’s not always clear what to do next. How do you confront your partner about cheating? What should a conversation about infidelity look like? What if you want to stay together?
Once you feel confident that you do want to confront your partner, try to figure out what you’d like the outcome of that confrontation to be.
- Do you want to stay together? If so, what would that look like?
- What steps do you both need to take to heal?
- How do you think your partner could win back your trust?
- Do you want to break up? If so, how should you handle telling the kids? Who needs to move out? Do you have financial assets to divide? What about pets?
Sometimes you don’t know what you want. Depending on how much information you have about the infidelity; you might not feel you have all the facts necessary to begin to think about the future or end the relationship. If so, then take some time, continue the relationship, but be cautious and alert to any other signs. When you take the time you need, you can tackle the issue head on, with composure and with a plan.
I am a female entrepreneur with both a business and healthcare background. I bring a unique perspective about critical relationships, both in and out of the C-suite. You can read more about me and my consultation with executives at https://executiverelationshipadvisor.com/
Many C-suite colleagues are on their A-game at work, but lack the same fervor when it comes to their marriage or partner relationship. With COVID-19, there has been a considerable increase in “togetherness” with couples that are not often unaccustomed to being in the same vicinity for more than a few hours at a time. I have found that this “togetherness” is leading to one of two outcomes: the couple makes the active decision to fortify the relationship and remedy issues that have led to the lack of unity, or they make a trip to the divorce attorney. This relationship choice point has a profound impact upon business performance and the successful company leadership of the executive.