We’ve all heard of emotional affairs, but what exactly are they? And how can you tell if you or your partner is having one? Read on to find out.
What Is an Emotional Affair?
An emotional affair is defined as a close relationship between two people in which there is an exchange of intimate thoughts and feelings (including love and sexual attraction) without any physical contact. In other words, it’s a platonic relationship that has crossed the line into something more.
There are a few key signs that your friendship may have morphed into an emotional affair, including:
You’re keeping secrets from your partner. If you’re hiding your friendship from your significant other, that’s a pretty big red flag.
You’re confiding in your friend about things you wouldn’t normally share with someone you’re not romantically involved with. This is a sign that you’re developing an intimacy with this person that goes beyond the bounds of friendship.
You find yourself constantly thinking about your friend, even when you’re not together. If this person is never far from your thoughts, it’s a sign that you may be developing feelings for them.
You might start making comparisons between your friend and your partner, and finding your friend comes out ahead. This is a dangerous sign, as it means you may be starting to emotionally detach from your partner.
You might start dressing up or trying to look better whenever you know you’ll see your friend. If you find yourself wanting to look good for someone who isn’t your romantic partner, it’s likely because you want to impress them or attract their attention.
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s possible that what started out as a simple friendship has turned into something more complicated. But before you panic, it’s important to remember that emotional affairs are often harmless flirtations that don’t go anywhere. However, if left unchecked, they can damage the trust and intimacy in your relationship, so it’s best to nip them in the bud early on.
Conclusion: If you think you or your partner may be having an emotional affair, the first step is to talk about it openly and honestly. From there, you can decide whether to try and salvage the friendship or cut ties altogether. Either way, communication is key to ensuring your relationship stays healthy and happy.