Once upon a time, the sacred vow of ’till death do us part’ symbolized an unwavering commitment to a lifelong journey of love and partnership. In generations past, the idea of enduring hardships and joy together until the very end was an inherent part of marriage and long-term commitment. However, as our world continues to evolve and transform, so too has the concept of eternal fidelity.
In today’s fast-paced and dynamic society, the sentiment of being with someone until death has undergone a profound shift, with modern relationships embracing a more fluid and open-ended approach to commitment.
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Why are people choosing infidelity when it comes to long-term relationships?
Nowadays, there has been a concerning rise in the occurrence of infidelity within long-term relationships and marriages. Despite the traditional expectations of commitment and loyalty, an increasing number of individuals find themselves drawn towards the allure of extramarital affairs. A recent study by Gleeden, a well-known extramarital dating site with over 2 million Indian users tried to find out the reasons why people are choosing cheating in long-term relationships.
To get emotional needs fulfilled
Being emotionally supported and understood by others helps us feel valued and connected, making relationships stronger and more fulfilling. “According to the Survey, 34% of those who opt to have extramarital affairs aren’t necessarily motivated purely by sexual encounters or dissatisfaction with their marriage. Instead, a rising number of people are looking for emotional fulfilment in relationships other than their primary ones. This pattern emphasises the value of emotional kinship and comprehension, which might not have existed in their prior relationships. Surprisingly, 35% of females and 34% of males say they have found happiness elsewhere.”
There is a lot more opportunity to meet more compatible people
Thanks to social media and dating apps, the world feels smaller, and meeting new people has become incredibly accessible. With just a few taps on a screen, we can connect with individuals from different corners of the globe, expanding our social circles like never before. “According to the report, persons from Tier 2 cities, where infidelity has increased, like the convenience and anonymity that these platforms provide (52% from Guwahati, 33% from Kochi, 41% from Indore, and 44% from Ludhiana). Even those who are already in committed partnerships find it simpler to look for new relationships due to the number of possibilities and the allure of closely matched potential companions.”
Due to only seeking happiness for self
When it comes to the newer generation, the idea of finding happiness for self is the topmost priority. So, in some cases, this could also lead to finding happiness for oneself by finding someone else too. “A generation that prioritises personal fulfilment and happiness is challenging conventional social norms and the roles that must play in partnerships. Due to this change, an increasing number of people are turning to infidelity as a way to discover and fulfil their own desires. It’s interesting to note that according to the data, participants from Tier 1 cities (31% from Kolkata, 30% from Delhi, 21% from Mumbai, and 34% from Bangalore) did not hesitate to join this shift.”
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Strategies to not be tempted to cheat
While some of the reasons in the above-given survey make one think, as a whole infidelity does reflect poorly in our society even now. Here are some ways to steer away from those thoughts:
Giving priority to emotional connection
Work on building and maintaining emotional intimacy in your relationship. Stay attuned to your partner’s feelings and offer support and empathy when needed. Emotional closeness helps strengthen the bond between partners.
Having open communication with partner
Foster open and honest communication with your partner. Discuss your feelings, needs, and concerns, and encourage them to do the same. Address any issues or conflicts constructively rather than resorting to secrecy or deception.
You need to set boundaries
Establish clear boundaries with others to protect your relationship. Avoid engaging in flirtatious or intimate conversations with individuals outside your partnership that could potentially lead to emotional or physical infidelity.
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Actually try to invest your time and effort
Instead of running away, try to dedicate time and effort to nurturing your relationship. Plan activities together, share hobbies and create memorable experiences that strengthen your connection.
Address your issues
If you find yourself unhappy in your relationship, address the issues openly with your partner. Seek professional help if necessary to work through any unresolved problems.
Be headstrong and avoid temptations
Be mindful of situations that could lead to temptation, such as spending time alone with someone who might pose a risk to your commitment. Always think about the outcome of your actions and how it could affect your relationship.
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Reflect on your actions
Regularly reflect on your actions and feelings, and be honest with yourself about your needs and desires. Understanding your motivations can help you make more conscious choices in your relationship.
Try seeking help
If you are struggling with feelings of attraction to someone outside your relationship or facing other challenges, consider seeking professional counselling to navigate these emotions.
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Every relationship has to face some challenges at one point. How you deal with it is your choice entirely.