What Will You Do If You’re Caught in a Love Triangle?
What Will You Do If You’re Caught in a Love Triangle?
You may think love triangles are entertaining when you see them at the movies or on TV. In real life, they’re much less fun. You’re liable to wind up breaking your heart and wasting your time.
So, why do these relationships develop in the first place? It’s usually by accident. Your ex comes back into the picture after you become involved with someone else. You start chatting with multiple contacts on a dating app and find you have romantic feelings for more than one.
Even worse, you may find out that the partner you thought was monogamous has been unfaithful.
How can you protect yourself from these kinds of complications? Try these ideas for ending a love triangle and preventing new ones.
How to Prevent Future Love TrianglesHow to End a Love Triangle
Maybe you’re prepared to wait and see what happens. Maybe you’re one of those couples who can heal and recover from infidelity. Otherwise, it’s probably time to leave an unhealthy situation, so you can make room in your heart for a new love.
Try these tips:
1. Make up your mind. Procrastinating or living in denial holds you back from making positive changes. Face the facts. If possible, tell your partner face-to-face about why you’re leaving, and stick to your resolution.
2. Be objective. It can be difficult to see past your emotions when your heart is involved. Imagine what advice you would give to a friend who was going through the same thing.
3. Cut off contact. You’ll reduce stress and recover faster if you avoid interacting at least temporarily. That includes social media and other online activities too.
4. Stay busy. While you’re healing, distractions can provide some relief. Find a new hobby or redecorate your home. Join a gym or take cooking classes.
5. Think positive. Look on the bright side. Focus on the things you have to look forward to instead of dwelling on the past.
One-third of Americans have been in a love triangle, according to a poll by the research company YouGov. While these entanglements are common, you can reduce your risks.
Keep these strategies in mind:
1. Examine your role. Take responsibility for how you contributed to the situation. Ask yourself what attracts you to unhealthy relationships, especially if this seems to be a pattern.
2. Communicate honestly. If you really want to pursue more than one relationship at a time, let others know. That way they can make their own informed decisions, and you can avoid the burden of keeping secrets.
3. Build support. You may be less vulnerable to love triangles if you cultivate other relationships. Spend time with family and friends and stay in touch even when you’re dating someone new.
4. Pace yourself. Give yourself time to get to know a potential romantic partner. Slowing down will make it easier for you to spot any signs that they may be involved with someone else or otherwise unavailable.
5. Resist comparisons. Do you keep thinking about your ex while you’re trying to start dating again? Keeping a journal may help you to remember your incompatibilities and stop glamorizing the past.
6. Practice self-care. Breakups are a stressful time. Put extra effort into looking after yourself. Eat a nutritious diet and work out regularly. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night.
7. Consider counseling. Talking with a professional may help if you’re searching for more insights and coping strategies. Ask your primary physician for a referral or check your insurance plan to find a provider in your network.
Romantic relationships can be challenging enough without competing for someone’s affection. Say goodbye to love triangles, so you can enjoy true love and greater peace of mind.