Discovering that your spouse has been unfaithful and committed adultery is a situation which could naturally cause an individual to question the fundamental elements of their relationship. This breach of trust can surprise and shatter a relationship, which for some, serves as the foundation and security blanket of their day-to-day affairs.
Understandably, the knowledge of an affair will arouse an array of emotion ranging from sadness to anger. However, it’s important to remember that while your emotions are a strong driving force that are coming to the surface, you must do your best to control your emotions rather than letting them control you. These feelings should be vented and expressed rather than bottled up, but you must do so constructively, wisely, and possibly talking things over with a family member or close friend before taking any action.
As a clear example of how emotions can cloud judgment, a 45-year old woman named Beverly Rolston was charged with pandering obscenities after video surveillance of an Ohio Walmart showed her putting pictures of her husband having sex with a female employee. The pictures were tagged with the slogan “hide your husbands” among other things, and were in view of customers and children. While her husband admitted the affair, his wife’s emotion driven reaction clearly crossed a line.
Here is a list of 3 ways to control your emotions:
- Delay Your Reaction – Take a deep breath, go for a walk, allow your heart to slow down and logic to overcome emotion. In exhibiting a calm demeanor, you demonstrate maturity and control which will help you move forward and make the best decision for your circumstance.
- Harness Negative Energy – Use the energy produced by your emotion to exercise or work on something constructive and creative. In this way, you are redirecting this negative situation and transforming it into a positive.
- Think Long Term – While you are emotionally exposed, this action can be a positive in the long run. It can cause a couple to work out their issues or open the possibilities for an entirely new, healthy relationship.
Infidelity is sure to cause a highly emotional reaction. However, while your first thought may be to act out, it’s important to control your emotions and act wisely so you don’t cause more trouble for yourself in the long run.
