13 Ways to Deal with Being the Other Woman ...

13 Ways to Deal with Being the Other Woman ...
By Heather • Aug 30, 2023

Being the other woman is a tough situation isn’t it? This is especially true if the guy is married and not just in a relationship. There are ways to deal with being the other woman and here, we’ll explore some of them. We’ll also talk about maybe getting yourself out of being the other woman.

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1. Face the Truth

When you’re in a situation where you are being the other woman, it can be really difficult to see the truth. Is he really going to leave his girlfriend? Is he going to stick with his wife? Why hasn’t he left his girl yet? These are all questions that you should ask yourself. In general, most guys want their cake and eat it too, that doesn’t go for every single situation and man, but in most cases, if a guy has a girlfriend and a wife, he’ll want to keep both of them.

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Acknowledge the hard truths and ask yourself the challenging questions. Oftentimes, you are led by wishful thinking and ignore the red flags waving right in front of you. It may hurt, but facing reality about his promises is crucial. Remember, actions speak louder than words. If he hasn’t made a move to change his situation by now, chances are he won’t. It's important to protect your heart and reevaluate your worth in this scenario. You deserve someone who fully commits to you, not just when it's convenient for them. Don’t put your life on hold for a maybe; value yourself enough to demand certainty and respect.

2. Develop outside Interests

Just because you are the other woman doesn’t mean you have to invest all of your time in the guy you are seeing. Develop some interests that are all your own! Do you like to paint? What about write? These are the things that you can focus on instead of who your man is with!

3. Support System

Being the other woman is not easy. It’s actually really difficult and if you’re in a situation like this, it might be key for you to get a support system. Pull together some of your friends and family. Believe me, it’ll make all of the difference if you do happen to ditch the guy.

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Being the other woman is a difficult position to be in, and it can have long-lasting consequences if it's not handled with care. It's important to remember that you're not alone in this situation, and building a support system is key. Reach out to your close friends and family, and tell them what's going on. They'll be able to provide you with a shoulder to cry on, and offer advice and support.

It's also important to remember that you're not the one to blame. Even if you feel guilty, the blame should be placed on the person in the relationship who is cheating. Don't allow yourself to be taken advantage of, and don't let anyone make you feel like you're the one at fault.

It's also important to consider the consequences of your actions. While it may be tempting to stay in the relationship, it's important to think about the long-term consequences. If the relationship is discovered, it could have a negative impact on your reputation and your relationships with other people.

4. Therapy

Just because you are the other woman does not make you normal. There might be something in you that you need to get help with that has put you in this situation. Therapy might be a great idea in addition to your support system. That way you can figure out the underlying feelings that might have put you in this situation!

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Seeking therapy can be a transformative experience as it provides a safe space to explore those complex emotions and behaviors. A skilled therapist can help untangle your thoughts and guide you to understand the deeper issues at play. Confronting these feelings can be challenging, but the self-awareness you gain can empower you to make healthier relationship choices in the future. Remember, prioritizing your mental and emotional health is a sign of strength, not weakness. Through therapy, you are taking an important step towards personal growth and healing.

If you're looking to engage your partner in intriguing conversations, why not try some hypothetical questions for couples? These fun queries will not only keep the conversation lively but also stimulate deep thoughts and potentially reveal insights about each other's personality and thought processes.

5. Stop Thinking in Black & White

If you are the other woman, you can’t think in blacks and whites. Everything should be in grey. You can’t think that you are the only one at fault, because he is the one cheating too. Just because you’re the other woman doesn’t make you a bad person, it is just a tough situation to be in.

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It is important to acknowledge the complexity of human emotions and relationships. Instead of condemning yourself for the role you've found yourself in, try to understand the situation in all its shades of gray. Reflect on what led you here and what it reflects about your needs and boundaries. Relationships are intricate, and while it's easy to label people and situations, such simplifications overlook the nuances of each unique circumstance. Remember, this does not define your worth or morality; it's a moment to learn from and grow.

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6. Don’t Tell

Typically, when you are in this type of relationship, you can’t tell anyone, as it can all leak back to his family right? Well ladies, I say that if you are keeping your relationship a secret, you deserve better. So while it might be a first instinct not to tell, if you are really thinking about stopping the cycle, it might be time to talk to your family about your relationship!

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Concealing a relationship can often feel like you're complicit in something that doesn't align with your values. It's emotionally draining to hide a significant part of your life from those close to you. Communication is vital, and perhaps discussing your situation with a trusted friend or a counselor could provide some clarity and support. Remember, enduring secrecy for love can be a heavy burden, and you are worthy of a relationship that you can joyfully shout about from the rooftops, not shrouded in whispers. Openness might just be the key to finding the respect and love you truly deserve.

7. Think about Ending It

This should be a constant thought of yours, to think about ending your relationship with him. You may love him, it might be difficult the first couple months, but once you realize that you are better than a secret relationship and deserve more, you’ll dwell more on ending it.

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The end of a relationship is not easy, especially when it is a secret one. It may take time to come to the realization that one deserves better than a relationship hidden from the world. During this time, it is important to consider the consequences of ending the relationship. It is possible that the other person may not take it well, and it is important to keep in mind that the other person's feelings should be taken into account. It is also important to consider the impact that the end of the relationship may have on family and friends. It is important to be prepared for the possible reactions that may occur.

8. Understand His Partner's Position

When you are in a relationship like this, it's hard to admit that you are the other woman, but ... you are. You've got to understand his partner's position, you've got to see things from their side too. Keep that in mind if you are the other woman and how you would feel.

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Being the other woman in a relationship is an incredibly difficult situation to be in. Not only do you have to deal with the guilt of knowing that you are in a relationship with someone who is already in a committed relationship, but you also have to deal with the potential backlash of the other person finding out. It can be a very emotionally and psychologically taxing experience, and it is important to understand the other person's position in the situation.

The other person is likely feeling betrayed and hurt by their partner's infidelity. They may feel embarrassed and angry that their partner has chosen to be with someone else. It is important to remember that they are feeling a range of emotions and it is important to be compassionate and understanding towards them.

It is also important to remember that the other person is likely feeling a range of emotions, including confusion, anger, hurt, and betrayal. It is important to be mindful of this when interacting with them and to not take any of their emotions personally.

9. Don't Settle

Settling for being the other woman is never a great option. You should be pushing it, you should be determining if you are going to stay put and let him walk all over you or if you are going to move on and find someone worth it.

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Remember that self-worth and respect come from within. If you find yourself resigned to a role that doesn't bring you the happiness and recognition you deserve, it's time to reevaluate. Consider what you truly want and need in a relationship. Holding on to someone who cannot fully commit to you may only lead to more heartache. It's essential to make decisions that prioritize your emotional well-being and lead you towards a more fulfilling and reciprocal partnership. Life is too short to be anything but a main character in your own story.

10. Think about Your Future

How is your future going to look with this guy? You've got to consider that whenever you are in this type of situation. You never want to just stay in the now.

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Envisioning a life with someone should bring feelings of joy and stability, not uncertainty and secrecy. It's crucial to reflect on where this relationship is going and how it fits with your life goals and values. Are you okay with potential long-term implications? If the relationship doesn't progress to something more solid, are you prepared for the emotional toll it may take? These are essential questions to ponder, as they have the power to shape not just your romantic life, but your overall happiness and peace of mind.

11. Know How It Can Effect You Emotionally

How do you think that you are going to be able to handle another relationship if you are the other woman? How do you think you are going to handle other relationships in general, even if this one doesn't work out?

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Being the other woman often involves complex emotional dynamics. You might grapple with feelings of jealousy, insecurity, and guilt. There's the persistent question of trust – after all, if they're willing to step out on their current partner, isn't there a risk they might do the same to you? This can lay a heavy burden on your heart, potentially impacting your self-esteem and trust in future relationships. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, and consider seeking support, whether through friends, family, or professional counseling.

12. Find Yourself Someone Single

When you are the other woman, you aren't ever going to be number one girls, you aren't ever going to be the perfect person to him -- so why not find yourself someone single? Why not find yourself someone that is worth your time?

13. Does He Get Jealous?

Finally, does he seem controlling and jealous, even though you aren't at all 'his' and he is in another relationship? This is something that you've got to weigh too!

Being the other woman definitely isn’t a piece of cake or a walk in a park, it’s hard. Just remember, there are ways to deal with being the other woman. Keep your support system close, talk about ending it and definitely know that you deserve better. So ladies, have you ever been the other woman? If so, share your story!

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Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Anonymous:I was married for six years to a man I loved dearly. I saw the changes in him, and his daily routine changed. He started coming in late from work, and leaving early for work. His excuse was to beat the traffic. Come to find out he was having an affair. I was heartbroken, I tried everything to save my marriage because he was my life. I hung in their for another year but the trust wasn't their. Sad to say we got a divorce. This man called me everything but a child of God, after this my self-esteem went out the door. I've been struggling with my self-esteem ever since. Now I'm seeing a married man. I'm not proud of myself for doing this because its emotionally draining. Sitting around waiting on him to visit, basically putting my life on hold. Every time I break it off with him I go back. Please help any suggestions to get him out my life for good.

I have fallen in love with an engaged man who also works in the same place as me. He used to be my coworker but he moved to a different department so I don't see him as much now; thankfully. But; We do park in the same structure so whenever he isn't there i'm wondering where he is, what hes doing, who his with, etc etc. I know exactly who hes with and what hes doing but I never want to accept it! I'm constantly checking his and his fiancés Instagram, I am completely in love with this guy. & I know he does not love me back. I am hurting myself over and over & I cant seem to stop. We've been doing this since April 2014. We have tried stopping twice but it didnt work. Obviously, all we do is have sex. We have some good conversations and a great connection but I know what he really wants from me, and it kills me because this guy is perfect. PERFECT. Hes sexy as hell, body, face, everything, sex is great, he is sweet, has a good heart, hes smart, creative, etc. i wanted him the minute I laid eyes on him. Well; Be careful what you wish for ladies. Hes everything Ive always wanted & I cant even really have him. Him and his fiance are so in love, ( well atleast thats how they make it seem ) and it absolutely kills me. Their familes are friends, they are always going on little adventures , you get the point. This is the third time ive been the other woman and i just never learn. But with him i actually caught feelings like ive never felt and now im so lost. I keep telling myself to end this but its just so hard. Supposedly i'm the only other girl hes been with while hes with her, but who knows. You would NEVER expect a guy like him to cheat. but honestly, his fiance isnt very sexy, but i can tell she has an amazing personality and shes extremely smart, i basically fit the spots she doesn't have, i am the perfect mistress. But i do not want to be a mistress anymore. I want to be loved and i want to feel wanted more than sexually. I know he is not going to be that man for me, so i need to get out of this ASAP. I'm so sorry for anyone who has been cheated on, being the other woman has completely torn me apart and i hope i will never be this dumb again. And if i ever do mess with a taken man, i will NOT catch feelings.

i had a onenight stand a co worker who I knew had a girlfriend. I was so horrified with myself that I told myself that I wouldnt speak to him again, and I would leave it up to him whether or not to tell his girlfriend. I didnt see him for 2 weeks, but when I did see him at work next, he told me that he had broken up with his fiancee because he wanted me anf that she had kicked him out of his house. Thats right, as it turns out they were engaged! Not only that, but they have 2 children together aged 3 and 1! He is 29 and I am 19 yrs old. I didnt have feelings for him at that time, but I felt responsible for the whole situation and so I stuck by his side and provided support. I constantly tried to get him to go back to his ex, but he refused. I even tried to break up with him and remove myself from the situation so that he would go back to her, but he was persistant that whether or not I came along, he didnt see their relationship going much further. ive received abusive calls from her, her friends her family, and even his family. Over the past 5 months that ive been with him, I have developed feelings and can honestly say I am madly in love with him. But I can still see that he cares for his ex, and her for him. I am an emotional and psychological mess. Knowing that youve caused someone so much pain and misery is enough to break anyone. I have lost relationships with my friends and family because they disapprove of what I have done. The worst part is, no matter how severe the consequences are, you know deep down you deserve them for causing someone so much heartache. So now I have to force myself to push this man away, the man whom I have grown to love so deeply, for the chance that their family, the one which I have torn apart, can reunite and find happiness once again. That was my first ever one night stand, the fifth person ive ever slept with, and the first person I feel I truly love. DO NOT sleep with a taken man. Ive seen firsthand the pain it causes. Ive looked into the eyes of the children whose father I stole, and the eyes of the fiancee whose bestfriend and lover I have stolen. DONT INVOLVE YOURSELF WITH SOMEONE ELSES MAN. YOU WILL RUIN LIVES, INCLUDING YOUR OWN!

How do you cope with being the other woman? I met my boyfriend nine months ago. He said he was getting a divorce but then said it's complicated and he has to wait until he gets his citizenship. He moved in with me and everything seemed fine. Until the day I caught him talking to other women. Just recently I finally got him to tell me the truth that he isn't faithful to me. Not a surprise since I'm already the other woman. I love him very much and just looking for tips on how other women deal with their man wanting to have sex with other women. He tells me he loves me and that I'm to keep and the others are just for sex. He is younger than me and I'm trying to understand but having difficulty with figuring out how to handle the situation.

I think another thing people should take into account is the fact that scientifically documented studies show that worldwide there are 2 women for every man; not counting China because of it's one child policy causing their population to opt to keep male babies only. So there may not really be someone out there for you Ladies unless you share a man as distasteful as that may be to you.

I was the other woman to a guy who had his girlfriend, then engaged to her for 2years. at some point I knew he would never leave her and I managed to find another happy relationship. but this engaged guy kept reaching out to me on all forms of social media, telling me the relationship was over and I never believed a word of it. we talked, he only wanTed to talk about sex but I kept it friendly and platonic. but his wife reached out to me and told me she knew he had been lying to her and talking to me. as if she was coming to check me. why was she talking to me, shouldn't she have been going after her man? how was i in the wrong if I didn't want him or believe him in the first place?

How do you think a guy should feel who is the "other guy"? What if a guy is in love with a girl who isn't married to some guy but is living with him, and says that when they have to move she won't go with him, so is leading the "other guy" (who's not "with" anyone except an ex who wants to come back to him but had initially betrayed him) on to think she will come live with him, even if they never had sex before? And the relationship has been mostly online, on and off for 2 years, but has been daily for 6 months? She had started calling him when the official boyfriend moved back home for 6 months, and would talk to him for 8, 10, 12 hours a night (mostly her talking) but then when the official boyfriend came back, she had to limit things to Instant Messages and emails, sometimes 50 or more emails or IMs a day, right up until now? Should the "other guy" keep hanging on, or will the girl want to do like the guys do, and try to keep both, try to "have her cake and eat it too"?

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