Decoding Infidelity: Understanding the Three Types of Cheaters and Spotting the One You Must Escape

As a woman who has experienced her fair share of heartbreak, I've come to recognize that not all cheaters are created equal.

In this heart-to-heart, I'll share with you the three types of cheaters I've observed and why one type, in particular, should have you lacing up your sneakers and running as fast as your legs will take you.

1. The Momentary Slip

First, there's the cheater who falls into temptation just once. Picture the partner who never planned to stray but did in a moment of weakness. They're often wracked with guilt and truly regret their actions. The crucial component here is the remorse and how the infidelity is uncovered. When the cheater falls on their own sword and confesses everything, it’s not ideal but it does demonstrate something that feels salvageable. I've seen relationships bounce back from this, with both partners working hard to rebuild trust. It's not easy, but it's possible.

2. The Emotional Wanderer

Then, there's the emotional cheater. This type might not even get physical with someone else but forms an emotional bond that betrays your trust. It usually points to something missing in the relationship. I've been there, feeling neglected and unseen, so I understand the urge to find emotional support elsewhere. This type of cheating often calls for deep conversations and maybe couples therapy, but there's hope for healing as long as both parties still fundamentally believe in the relationship.

3. The Serial Cheater

And now, the one I want to really talk about: the serial, habitual cheater. This person cheats repeatedly, without reason or remorse. It's like a game to them; they love the thrill, and frankly, they don't care who gets hurt in the process. Unfortunately, I've loved someone like this. It was devastating to realize that their cheating wasn't about a lapse in judgment but a reflection of who they are. The ultimate sucker punch with this one is that it’s usually from someone you would never suspect. They often have a carefully crafted ‘nice guy’ image, and you just never see it coming. My one piece of advice here is that when that mask slips, it’s important that you believe what is right in front of you.

Why You Need to Walk Away

Being with a serial cheater is like being on an emotional rollercoaster that only goes down. I've learned the hard way that this kind of cheating often stems from deeper issues like narcissism or a profound lack of empathy. These individuals will likely never change, despite whatever promises they make in the moment.

Staying with a serial cheater can make you question your worth and sanity. It did for me. I found myself constantly paranoid, wondering when the next betrayal would come. It was no way to live. The day I chose to walk away was the day I chose myself over a toxic love.

The Courage to Move On

If you're with a serial cheater, my heart goes out to you. It's a painful and lonely place to be. But remember, you deserve someone who loves and respects you enough to stay faithful. It's okay to choose a future where you're valued, and your love isn't taken for granted. 

Final Thoughts

Every type of cheating hurts, but it's the serial cheater who poses the biggest threat to your emotional well-being. Trust your gut and don't be afraid to put yourself first. There's a love out there that's honest and true, and it's waiting for you the moment you're ready to close this chapter. You lose a cheater, someone not worthy of you, and in the process, you find yourself, and in my experience, that’s a decision that you will never regret.