With the rise of social media, a new gray area of cheating has emerged: micro-cheating.
It’s an updated form of flirting and it’s subtle. According to Gigi Engle, a certified sex coach, “Micro cheating is a cousin of emotional cheating.”
These two terms overlap each other but not the same. Some people may not count micro-cheating as cheating. Nevertheless, here are 5 signs of micro-cheating to check yourself and your partner.
- Talking To An Ex And Concealing It
Cheating doesn’t start in bedrooms; it begins with sneaky conversations. Many people remain good friends with an ex even after starting a new relationship. However, contacting your ex without telling your partner is not a great sign of a committed relationship. Anything from double-tapping an ex’s photo to deleting a text exchange can refer to as micro-cheating in a monogamous relationship.
- Sexting Someone Else
Sexting is everywhere. Without even physically crossing a line, sexting is whispers of infidelity. These kinds of behaviors might take you into territories that you might regret.
- Lying About Your Relationship Status To Single Friends
It is not surprising that more than 50% of people in a relationship lie about their relationship status. Common behaviors such as wandering eyes, sharing sexual fantasies, and paying attention to your single friends are forms of micro-cheating.
- Cyberstalking Someone Else
Everyone is allowed to have good friends outside the relationship. But, keeping track of the social media feeds of someone who isn’t your partner could turn into a problem. If you catch your partner stalking someone on social media, then have a serious conversation with your significant other.
- Emotional & Physical Withdraw
If your partner is micro-cheating, you will observe small changes in their behavior such as physically withdrawing and being emotionally distant. Other signs are muting text notifications, changing passwords, and not engaging in conversation.
How Do You Move Past Micro-cheating In Your Relationship?
Communicate Your Concerns With Your Partner
Take your partner to neutral territories, such as a park or cafe. Then, share how you are feeling. Give enough space to your partner to share their feelings and thoughts, too. Say why are suspicious. Communicate your fears, worries and stressors.
Seek Assistance From Professional
Every couple is different. Some move past through infidelity and others end up divorced. In either case, counseling can help you arrive at a safe, stable place. Therapists certified in Gottman private therapy have the skills and experience to help couples assess their relationship and make repairs.
Make It Clear What Counts As Micro-cheating:
Set boundaries with your partner on what is kosher behavior and what is not. The lines of faithfulness and fidelity should not be in the gray area. If you find yourself in the “grays,” then it is time to assess your relationship and address any underlying issues.
According to YouGov’s poll, one in five Americans admitted to being unfaithful to their partner. By staying clear of micro-cheating, you avoid the hurtful path of infidelity.
