Laide Bakare: Retaliation, self-reflection… ways to respond to cheating in marriage
Nigerian actress Laide Bakare advises against ending relationships over infidelity, urging women to consider retaliation instead.
In an interview with Oyinmomo TV, she advocates for maturity in handling such situations, suggesting that if her spouse cheats, she would respond in kind.
Bakare emphasizes that while men may cheat, leaving a relationship is not the wisest choice. Notably, this perspective comes from her own experiences, having announced her third marriage last year following two previous unsuccessful unions.
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“I will say women shouldn’t leave their partners for cheating, but they can cheat too. You don’t have to pack out but you can also cheat. But you have to do it with all levels of maturity. If my spouse cheats on me, I will cheat on him too,” she said.
Ways to respond to cheating in marriage
Open Communication
Engage in honest and open conversations with your partner to understand the reasons behind their actions. Effective communication can help address underlying issues and rebuild trust.
Counseling or Therapy
Seek professional help together. Relationship counseling can provide a neutral space to explore the root causes of infidelity and work towards healing.
Self-Reflection
Take time for self-reflection to assess your feelings and whether you want to salvage the relationship. Understand your own needs and boundaries.
Set Boundaries
Clearly define expectations and boundaries for both partners moving forward. This can help rebuild trust and prevent future instances of infidelity.
Build Emotional Intimacy
Work on deepening emotional connections within the relationship. Strengthening emotional intimacy can create a more fulfilling bond and reduce the likelihood of straying.
Take a Break
Consider a temporary separation to gain perspective and assess the relationship without immediate emotional turmoil. This break can allow both partners to decide the future of the relationship.
Focus on Self-Improvement
Invest time and energy in personal growth. Building self-confidence and pursuing individual interests can contribute to a stronger sense of self-worth.
Establish Consequences
Clearly communicate the consequences of repeated infidelity. Setting boundaries and being firm about the repercussions can deter future betrayals.
Rebuilding Trust Gradually
Rebuilding trust is a gradual process. Both partners need to actively participate in rebuilding trust through consistent actions and transparent behavior.
Consider Retaliation with Caution
If choosing to retaliate, do so with caution and understanding of potential consequences. Revenge can escalate the situation and hinder efforts towards reconciliation. Always prioritize emotional maturity in any response.
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Remember, responses to infidelity vary, and each individual and relationship is unique. It’s essential to make decisions based on personal values, emotional well-being, and the desire for the relationship’s future.