Marriage Counsellor and Psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo

In a world where success is often tied to happiness, it’s easy to believe that accumulating more—money, possessions, recognition—will lead to fulfillment. However, even when surrounded by comforts, many still feel an unsettling void. What’s holding us back from the happiness we seek? The answer lies within: our ego.

The ego convinces us we’re incomplete and constantly in need of more. Yet its desires are insatiable, keeping true happiness out of reach. To find peace, we must let go of the ego’s grip and embrace a simpler, more authentic way of living, says India’s top marriage and relationship counselor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

What is Ego?

The ego represents our sense of self-worth and identity, shaped by memories, beliefs, and experiences. While a healthy ego fosters confidence, an inflated one breeds arrogance and inflexibility. It becomes the mask we wear, shaping how we present ourselves to the world. Balancing the ego is key to inner peace.

How Ego Blocks Happiness?

An unchecked ego can harm relationships, mental health, and overall well-being. Here’s how it sabotages us:

• Fosters Superiority: An inflated ego creates a false sense of being better than others, leading to arrogance and strained relationships.
• Creates Rigidity: It resists change, making us inflexible and closed to new perspectives.
• Blames Others: The ego deflects responsibility, hindering self-reflection and personal growth.
• Breeds Resentment: Holding onto ego-driven grudges adds negativity to our lives.
• Triggers Fear and Anxiety: It fosters an unhealthy need to protect an idealized self-image.
• Impairs Decision-Making: Ego-driven choices can lead to missed opportunities and damaged relationships.
• Seeks Power and Control: The ego’s desire for dominance often creates conflict and dissatisfaction.

Steps to Release the Ego and Find Happiness

1. Practice Self-Reflection

Pay attention to moments when you feel defensive, angry, or eager to prove yourself right. Pause and ask: Is this reaction necessary, or is it my ego speaking? Reflecting on your emotions helps you respond thoughtfully and consider how your actions affect others.

2. Embrace Forgiveness

Forgiveness is an antidote to ego. While the ego clings to past hurts and demands validation, forgiveness frees you from resentment and allows you to heal. It’s not about excusing others but about releasing the burden of pain and opening yourself to peace and happiness.

3. Cultivate Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you stay present and self-aware. Journaling, meditation, or mindful breathing can anchor you in the moment, reducing the ego’s influence. Supportive relationships and honest feedback also encourage self-reflection and inspire growth, helping you prioritize genuine happiness over external validation.

4. Let Go of Control

The ego thrives on the illusion of control, tying happiness to fleeting achievements and possessions. To break free, accept life’s unpredictability and embrace change. Take small risks, explore new opportunities, and find joy in simple moments. As psychologist Shivani Misri Sadhoo suggests, letting go doesn’t mean giving up—it means responding with grace and trusting life’s flow.

True happiness comes from within. By releasing the ego’s hold through self-reflection, forgiveness, mindfulness, and acceptance, we can let go of unnecessary fears and desires. This shift allows us to experience deeper connections, inner peace, and a more joyful, meaningful life. Letting go of the ego is not a loss but a pathway to uncovering the beauty and balance of life.

Dating can swing from exhilarating to downright frustrating. Among the many toxic trends in the modern dating world—ghosting, breadcrumbing, and zombieing—“sledging” stands out for its premeditated and manipulative nature. Rooted in a lack of genuine intent, sledging involves someone deliberately entering a relationship with plans to end it after a specific time, often right after the holiday season.

Let’s dive into this harmful trend, with insights from India’s top couples therapist and marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo, and explore how you can protect yourself from falling victim to it.

What Is Sledging in Dating?

Sledging refers to being strung along in a relationship solely to serve the other person’s temporary needs. The term captures the image of dragging someone emotionally, like pulling a sledge through the winter, with no intention of continuing the relationship after the holidays. Sledgers often decide months in advance to break up, wasting their partner’s time and leaving them blindsided when the relationship abruptly ends. Unlike the cozy bonds of cuffing season, sledging is purely for convenience and leaves the victim hurt and unfulfilled.

Why Do People Engage in Sledging?

Seeking Winter Companionship – Winter can feel isolating, and the festive season amplifies loneliness for many. To avoid being alone, some seek temporary relationships to fill the emotional void, valuing short-term comfort over long-term commitment.

Social Pressures During Festive Events – Holidays come with numerous social gatherings, and being single at these events can feel awkward. Many enter relationships to have a “plus one” for parties, family dinners, or holiday photos, prioritizing appearances over authenticity.

Fear of Commitment – The perks of companionship without emotional investment appeal to those wary of long-term commitments due to past heartaches or fear of vulnerability.

Ego Boost and Validation – For some, the thrill of attracting a partner and basking in their affection serves as an ego boost. The relationship itself is less important than the validation they derive from being desired.

Societal Expectations – Pressure from society—and social media—to appear in a relationship during the holidays drives people to engage in flings for show, rather than pursuing meaningful connections.

Avoiding Emotional Vulnerability
By keeping relationships superficial, sledgers shield themselves from the risks of deep emotional connections, enjoying the benefits of a relationship while keeping their feelings at arm’s length.

Red Flags of Sledging

• Mixed Signals – Early attention and communication wane over time, leaving interactions feeling shallow and routine.

• Reluctance to Discuss the Future – Your partner avoids making long-term plans, signalling a lack of serious intent.

• Focus on Instant Gratification – Sledgers prioritize immediate pleasure, showing little interest in building a lasting connection.

• Lack of Emotional Depth – Superficial conversations and avoidance of vulnerability suggest emotional detachment.

• Over-the-Top Affection Early On – An initial flood of affection (love bombing) may mask manipulative intentions.

How to Protect Yourself from Sledging in a Relationship?

• Seek Authentic Connections – Focus on shared interests and mutual goals to foster genuine relationships.

• Communicate Openly – Be honest about your relationship expectations and encourage the same from your partner.

• Avoid Treating or Being Treated as a Placeholder – Refuse to settle for a relationship built on convenience or seasonal loneliness.

• Resist Societal Pressures – Being single is a valid choice; your worth isn’t tied to your relationship status.

• Set Boundaries – Discuss needs and goals early. If there’s a misalignment, agree on a respectful exit strategy.

• Embrace Being Single – Singlehood can provide opportunities for personal growth and self-confidence, laying the foundation for future healthy relationships. It’s vital to focus on relationships rooted in authenticity rather than fleeting convenience. Sledging might seem like a harmless trend, but it creates emotional harm and robs people of opportunities for real connection. By prioritizing open communication, self-respect, and emotional honesty, you can protect yourself and build meaningful, lasting bonds.

Falling in love often feels effortless, filled with shared moments and joy. But when distance becomes part of the equation, nurturing that love demands patience, trust, and unwavering commitment. Long-distance relationships are undoubtedly challenging, trading spontaneous coffee dates and evening strolls for late-night calls and virtual hugs. Yet, they offer invaluable lessons about love, commitment, and ourselves.

What are the important things a long-distance relationship teaches you?

Let’s explore five key lessons a long-distance relationship teaches, as shared by India’s renowned marriage and relationship counselor, Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Time Is Valuable

A long-distance relationship reveals the fleeting nature of time and teaches us to cherish moments with our loved ones. While physical separation limits shared activities, it emphasizes emotional investment, open sharing, and attentive listening. In today’s digital age, where connections often feel superficial, long-distance relationships foster meaningful bonds through intentional conversations and deep understanding. Moments of connection—whether a heartfelt conversation or a virtual meal—become precious reminders to value the time spent with those we love.

The Art of Patience

Living apart requires an exceptional level of patience. Unlike proximity-based relationships, where instant gratification is common, long-distance relationships teach us to wait. There are times when your partner may not answer a call—not out of neglect but due to circumstances like work or travel. These moments test your ability to trust and manage misunderstandings. The prolonged wait for visits or responses often feels unbearable, but it fosters endurance, hope, and resilience. This learned patience not only strengthens your bond but also cultivates a broader life skill: appreciating delayed gratification and embracing the joy of reunions.

The Importance of Communication

Communication forms the backbone of any relationship, but its importance is magnified in long-distance setups. Being apart compels couples to practice clarity, honesty, and regular interaction. Miscommunication or withholding feelings can lead to unnecessary complications, making transparency essential. Effective communication strengthens emotional bonds, resolves conflicts, and builds trust, minimizing negative feelings. Sharing experiences, beliefs, and expectations bridges the physical gap, ensuring that emotional intimacy flourishes despite the miles.

Trust Becomes Essential

Trust is vital in any relationship, but in a long-distance dynamic, it takes center stage. Physical separation can breed uncertainty, yet this distance pushes couples to rely on trust more than ever. Gestures of love, honest communication, and patience become the foundation of emotional security. Trusting in your partner’s actions, promises, and intentions helps navigate the challenges of being apart. Setting boundaries and clear expectations further strengthens this trust, creating a secure and respectful space. Long-distance relationships demonstrate that trust transcends proximity—it’s about emotional assurance and belief in the relationship’s strength.

You Learn to Appreciate Each Other

Distance has a way of amplifying appreciation for your partner. When physically close, it’s easy to overlook gestures or become frustrated by quirks. However, separation sharpens your focus on the qualities and actions that make your partner special. The absence of their touch, voice, or presence makes their value unmistakably clear. Things once taken for granted, like a simple conversation or a laugh, gain profound significance. This newfound perspective fosters deeper gratitude and highlights the importance of the little things in a relationship.

Long-distance relationships are undeniably challenging, but they bring invaluable rewards. They teach us to treasure time, master patience, communicate effectively, build trust, and deeply appreciate our partners. Despite the obstacles, these relationships strengthen emotional connections and encourage us to value every shared moment, proving that love can thrive even across great distances.

In Indian culture, in-laws play a significant role in a married couple’s life. For many couples, building a harmonious relationship with in-laws can be both enriching and challenging. A positive connection not only enhances family dynamics but also provides emotional support for the couple. Here are practical strategies to help Indian couples foster a wonderful relationship with their in-laws.

What are some of the best ways for Indian couples to form good relationships with in-laws?

One of the leading marriage and family therapists Shivani Misri Sadhoo shares certain tips that should help Indian couples to form a good bond with their in-laws.

Build a Foundation of Respect

Respect is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Acknowledge the experiences and wisdom of your in-laws, even if their viewpoints differ from yours. This mutual respect can bridge generational and cultural gaps. Simple gestures like greeting them warmly, seeking their advice occasionally, and showing gratitude for their efforts can go a long way.

Set Clear Boundaries Together

Establishing boundaries is crucial to maintaining peace and avoiding misunderstandings. Couples should discuss their personal space, financial independence, and parenting preferences with their in-laws in a respectful manner. For instance, if you value alone time as a couple, communicate this gently without alienating your in-laws.

Encourage Open Communication

Transparent communication is key to resolving conflicts and strengthening ties. Couples should foster an environment where in-laws feel comfortable expressing their concerns. Similarly, share your thoughts without sounding defensive or accusatory. Regular conversations, whether during family dinners or casual catch-ups, can help in maintaining open lines of communication.

Appreciate Cultural Practices

Indian households often follow deeply rooted traditions and customs. Embrace these practices with an open mind and try to participate in family rituals, festivals, and ceremonies. If certain customs feel overwhelming, express your concerns politely and propose a middle ground. Showing interest in their way of life will make your in-laws feel valued.

Stand United as a Couple

Presenting a united front as a couple strengthens your bond and reduces confusion for in-laws. This does not mean ignoring their opinions; rather, balance their suggestions with what works best for your relationship. When conflicts arise, address them as a team to ensure mutual understanding and respect.

Be Mindful of Expectations

Indian families often have high expectations from newlyweds, ranging from household responsibilities to social appearances. Understand these expectations but also set realistic goals. For instance, if your in-laws expect frequent visits, plan these in a way that aligns with your schedule without compromising personal priorities.

Avoid Comparing Families

Every family operates differently. Avoid making comparisons between your spouse’s family and your own, as this can create tension. Appreciate the uniqueness of each family and work towards integrating their strengths into your own life.

Offer Support During Challenges

In-laws, like any other family members, go through their own struggles. Be there for them in times of need, whether it’s accompanying them to a doctor’s appointment, assisting with household chores, or simply lending a listening ear. Such gestures build trust and show that you value their well-being.

Celebrate Togetherness

Spending quality time with in-laws helps in building stronger bonds. Plan family outings, celebrate milestones together, or enjoy simple activities like watching movies or cooking. These shared experiences create memories that reinforce family ties.

Practice Patience and Empathy

Relationships take time to develop, and the same applies to your bond with in-laws. There may be disagreements or moments of frustration, but approaching these with patience and empathy can prevent escalation. Try to understand their perspective and work towards a solution amicably.

Developing a wonderful relationship with in-laws in an Indian context requires effort, understanding, and mutual respect. By embracing cultural values, setting healthy boundaries, and communicating openly, couples can create a harmonious environment where everyone feels valued and included. After all, a supportive relationship with in-laws contributes significantly to a happy and fulfilling married life.

Ready for the Next Step in Your Relationship? Indicators to Transition from Situationship to Relationship

In the world of modern dating, the concept of a “situationship” has become increasingly common. A situationship is a gray area between casual dating and a committed relationship. While it can be exciting, it often lacks clarity, leaving people wondering where they stand. If you’re in a situationship and questioning whether it’s time to take the next step.

What are the key indicators to switch from situationship to relationship?

Here are some key indicators to help you decide as explained by leading relationship expert and couples therapist Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Consistency in Communication

One of the strongest signs that your situationship might be ready to evolve is consistent communication. Are you both checking in on each other daily or discussing topics beyond surface-level small talk? If your partner initiates meaningful conversations and shows genuine interest in your life, it signals emotional investment—a foundation for a serious relationship.

Shared Future Plans

When the person you’re seeing stars involving you in their future plans—whether it’s a weekend getaway or attending a family event—it shows they’re thinking long-term. Situationships often focus on the present, while relationships require planning and aligning life goals. If discussions about “us” replace casual “me” or “you” plans, it’s a strong sign of progress.

Introduction to Friends and Family

Introducing you to their inner circle is a major step. Friends and family often act as sounding boards for significant decisions. If they’re making an effort to integrate you into their personal life, it shows they view you as someone important and are moving away from a casual dynamic.

Emotional Vulnerability

Relationships require trust and emotional openness. If your partner is sharing their fears, dreams, and vulnerabilities, it indicates they feel safe with you. This level of intimacy goes beyond the surface and demonstrates a desire to connect on a deeper level—a key ingredient in transitioning to a committed relationship.

Mutual Effort and Balance

In a situationship, the dynamic might feel one-sided or sporadic. However, if both of you are putting in equal effort to spend time together, communicate, and support each other, it’s a sign that you’re moving towards a partnership. Relationships thrive on mutual give-and-take, so noticing this balance is essential.

Exclusive Behavior

Have you stopped seeing other people? If both of you naturally gravitate towards exclusivity without explicitly discussing it, it’s an indicator that the bond has grown stronger. Once exclusivity becomes clear, it’s easier to have a conversation about defining the relationship.

Desire for Clarity

In a situationship, the lack of labels might initially feel liberating. However, if both of you start seeking clarity about “what we are,” it’s a signal that the current arrangement may no longer suffice. Having the “define the relationship” talk can feel intimidating, but mutual willingness to clarify your status is a sign of readiness for the next step.

Alignment of Values and Goals

Relationships require compatibility, not just chemistry. If you find that your values, life goals, and expectations align, transitioning to a relationship becomes more feasible. Shared values create a strong foundation for long-term success and deepen the connection.

When to Pause Before Transitioning?

While these signs can indicate readiness, it’s essential to assess whether both of you genuinely want a relationship. Sometimes, one partner might be ready while the other is not. If there’s hesitation, consider having an honest conversation about where each of you stands.

How to Transition Smoothly?

If the indicators are present and you feel ready, take the leap with a clear and open conversation. Express your feelings, intentions, and hopes for the future. Respect your partner’s perspective, and give them time if needed. A successful transition requires mutual agreement and understanding.

Deciding to move from a situationship to a relationship is an exciting but delicate process. Recognizing the signs of readiness—like emotional vulnerability, consistent communication, and shared goals—can help you make the transition confidently. Remember, relationships are built on mutual effort and alignment. If the timing feels right and both of you are on the same page, taking the next step could lead to a fulfilling partnership.

A marriage is built on love, trust, and companionship, but when your partner’s behavior shifts unexpectedly, it can raise unsettling questions. If your husband seems distant, preoccupied, or different, you may start to wonder whether he has been unfaithful. Here are some key signs that might indicate a change in your relationship.

How do you know if your husband has slept with someone else?

According to one of India’s leading marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo, you may look out for some of the signs. These are.

Sudden Increase in Busyness

If your husband’s schedule is suddenly packed with work trips, late nights, or unexpected weekend getaways, it might be a red flag. While occasional busy periods can be normal, a persistent pattern of “working late” without a clear reason could hint at a hidden relationship.

When his excuses start to feel excessive—like last-minute presentations or surprise overtime without any job changes—this shift in priorities might indicate he’s spending time with someone else.

Lack of Emotional Intimacy

Emotional distance can be a strong indicator of infidelity. If your husband becomes less open about his feelings, avoids deep conversations, or no longer expresses affection, it may be a sign he’s emotionally connecting with someone else.

This withdrawal often extends to physical intimacy, as guilt from an affair might make him feel uncomfortable or distant around you. True connection requires emotional honesty and presence; without these, your relationship may start lacking the closeness that signifies commitment.

Increased Secrecy

When a partner becomes unusually secretive, it can suggest they have something to hide. If your husband starts acting protective of his phone or social media accounts—keeping his phone face down or muting notifications—it might signal he’s involved with someone else.

While everyone deserves personal space, this level of secrecy in a marriage can be concerning, especially if he previously had no issue sharing details with you. If his behavior changes suddenly and he becomes guarded about his technology, it could indicate he’s trying to cover up an affair.

Frequent Late Nights

If your husband, who rarely used to go out, starts having more frequent night outs, this could be cause for concern. His usual explanations of “working late” or “hanging out with friends” might start to seem less convincing as these nights out increase in frequency.

You may notice him coming home later or being more secretive with his phone. These changes, especially if they feel out of character, may hint at the presence of someone new in his life. Trusting your instincts in these situations can be important, as they often pick up on subtle changes in your relationship.

Unfamiliar Scents

This might seem dramatic, but unexpected changes in your husband’s scent can be a subtle clue. If he comes home smelling of an unfamiliar perfume or a different soap, it may raise suspicions, especially if there’s no logical explanation like a workout or a long day at work.

While this alone doesn’t confirm infidelity, it can be a sign of intimacy with someone else, prompting you to question what’s happening in your relationship.

While these signs don’t definitively prove infidelity, they can indicate that something is off in your marriage. It’s essential to trust your instincts and address any concerns through open communication with your partner. Emotional honesty and transparency are key to maintaining a healthy, faithful relationship. If you notice these patterns consistently, it may be time to have an honest conversation with your husband about the state of your relationship.

When we fall in love, there’s a natural desire to share that happiness with others. Social media makes this easy, providing a platform for couples to showcase their love through photos, captions, and stories. Yet, while public declarations of love might seem positive, studies suggest that couples who frequently post about their relationship are often less happy than those who don’t.

Social media can create external pressure and fuel unhealthy comparisons. Constantly seeing other couples’ “perfect” moments may lead to self-doubt and jealousy. In contrast, couples who share less are less likely to fall into this comparison trap, allowing them to focus on their relationship instead of trying to keep up a curated online image. As a result, these couples often feel more secure, authentic, and satisfied.

What’s the reason couples who post less selfies tend to be more in love?

Let’s explore why couples who post less about their relationship tend to experience deeper, more genuine love as shared by one of India’ top marriage counsellors and relationship experts Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this article.

Belief in Real Connection

Couples who don’t rely on social media to display their relationship tend to prioritize private, meaningful moments. They value genuine connection over creating an online image, preferring to experience love in ways that don’t require external validation. This doesn’t mean they hide their relationship, but rather that they see love as something best nurtured in private. They focus on shared experiences, honest communication, and deepening their bond rather than proving their happiness to others. True connection doesn’t need an online audience, and these couples invest in building a love that thrives without counting likes.

Prioritizing Time Together

By spending less time on social media, couples can focus on the present and the moments they share. This dedication to being in the moment helps them create meaningful memories and nurtures a type of intimacy that transcends what can be shown on a screen. They immerse themselves in shared experiences, conversations, laughter, and adventures, which strengthen their emotional connection. In contrast, couples who post frequently may inadvertently shift their focus away from authentic experiences, as they seek external approval. The result is often a more superficial connection. Ultimately, those who cherish their time together build a more fulfilling, intimate relationship grounded in true love.

Freedom from Comparisons

Couples who share less on social media avoid the comparison trap that platforms often create. Social media typically highlights the best aspects of relationships, leading many to measure their own against idealized versions of others’ lives. By not posting constantly, couples focus on their own growth rather than seeking validation or portraying a “perfect” life. This freedom allows them to appreciate their own journey and love without insecurities fueled by comparing themselves to others. For these couples, less sharing fosters a stronger, more genuine bond.

Emphasis on True Happiness

Couples who understand that happiness comes from within are less dependent on their relationship for personal fulfillment. While they may share moments of joy on social media, these posts stem from authenticity rather than a need for approval. Happy couples prioritize personal growth, self-care, and pursuing individual interests, understanding that likes and comments do not measure the quality of their relationship. In contrast, couples who frequently post may come to rely on online attention, assessing their happiness through superficial metrics. Those who are less engaged on social media remain grounded in mutual respect, valuing what truly matters over public perception.

Seeking Support from Each Other

When couples refrain from oversharing, they often cultivate a more profound emotional connection, relying on each other for support instead of turning to an online audience. This inward focus encourages open communication, allowing both partners to express their feelings and challenges directly to each other. By prioritizing their relationship over others’ opinions, they create a safe environment that fosters vulnerability, trust, and understanding. This deeper emotional bond strengthens their love and builds resilience against external pressures. Their reliance on each other through life’s ups and downs enhances their empathy and trust, ensuring their relationship remains strong.

In the digital age, understanding how to nurture love amid constant online sharing is essential. Couples who post less about their relationship often focus on creating authentic connections, meaningful shared experiences, and mutual support. By prioritizing each other over seeking validation online, they build deeper, more lasting bonds. True love is about genuine connection, not the number of likes or the frequency of posts. This commitment to real connection leads to happiness, stability, and enduring love.

Falling in love often feels like the beginning of a beautiful fairytale. But as most of us know, love is rarely that simple. Finding someone who truly understands, supports, and connects with you is one of life’s most precious gifts – yet it’s a journey that requires not just hope but commitment, patience, and self-reflection.

If you’re serious about finding love, you may need to take a step back and look within.

What things must you stop if you are serious about finding love?

Here are five things you should stop doing if you want to invite real, lasting love into your life according to India’s top relationship expert and marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo.

Don’t Be Picky

Even if you have a clear idea of your ideal partner, being too rigid about it can put a damper on potential romances before they even begin. Sure, it’s natural to have preferences, but when those turn into a strict checklist, you risk overlooking what really matters.

Try to focus on who the person is as an individual rather than filtering them by their political views, lifestyle choices, or job status. Getting to know someone shouldn’t feel like a job interview where you’re assessing their income or whether they own a home. A first date is about finding a connection, not filling a role, so let go of the specifics and allow space for authentic chemistry to grow.

Don’t Be Hasty

It is not right to let the thrill of new love sweep you off your feet and push you into a whirlwind of rapid decisions. Moving too fast often means missing out on the essential moments of truly getting to know someone, which can lead to misunderstandings, unmet expectations, or even emotional exhaustion. In our fast-paced world, the urge to rush can feel ingrained in us, making us crave connection and fulfillment too quickly.

However, it’s important to pause and reflect: is this truly what you want? That initial spark of attraction can change with time, revealing different facets of the person you’re interested in. So, take a step back and savor the journey. After all, this is your life, and only you can determine what’s best for your heart. Embrace the process and allow it to unfold at its own pace.

Don’t Try to Be Perfect

Perfection is a myth we often chase, but it’s essential to realize that nobody is perfect in this world. Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal, focus on being your true self and defining what you want in life and in relationships.

Many people believe they need to be flawless to find love, but this notion can lead to inauthenticity and undue pressure. Embracing your imperfections makes you relatable and lovable, as it’s those very flaws that connect us as human beings. Letting go of the need for perfection allows you to be vulnerable, paving the way for deeper connections with those who appreciate you for who you genuinely are.

Don’t Be Afraid of Rejection

Rejection is something we all experience, especially in the quest for genuine love. It’s a common hurdle that can feel daunting, but it’s crucial to recognize that rejection is not only normal but an essential part of the dating process. Instead of viewing it as a setback, consider each rejection a valuable lesson that brings you one step closer to finding someone truly compatible.

Embracing this fear can significantly enhance your chances of discovering love, as it encourages you to take risks and meet new people. Remember, while the fear of rejection is a natural response, it shouldn’t dictate your actions. Living in constant avoidance of rejection leads to inauthenticity and prevents you from forming meaningful connections. Embrace vulnerability and let each experience shape your journey toward love.

Don’t be Afraid of New Experiences

Step outside your comfort zone if you’re truly serious about finding love. Embracing new experiences can be a transformative journey, opening doors to friendships and romantic relationships you may not have imagined. Whether it’s exploring unfamiliar places, diving into a new sport, or attending vibrant cultural events, each adventure presents opportunities to connect with others.

Moreover, stepping into the unknown not only enriches your life but also makes you a more interesting and well-rounded individual, qualities that are naturally appealing to those seeking meaningful connections. If finding love is important to you, take that leap and discover the possibilities waiting just beyond your comfort zone.

It is evident from this that finding love requires introspection and openness. By letting go of rigid expectations, avoiding haste, embracing imperfections, facing rejection, and seeking new experiences, you can create space for genuine connections. Ultimately, these steps invite lasting love into your life, enriching your journey.

For many couples, infidelity is a devastating experience. When a partner admits to cheating, it can shatter trust and put the relationship at serious risk, whether dating, engaged, or married. While the media often portrays men as the usual cheaters, the gap between men’s and women’s infidelity has narrowed significantly over the years.

According to data from the 2022 Global Social Survey (GSS) by the University of Chicago, about 20% of men and 13% of women confessed to cheating on their spouse. Another survey by YouGov in 2019 reported similar results, with 20% of men and 10% of women admitting to infidelity. Over recent decades, the number of women who cheat has steadily risen, showing a clear shift. But even with these statistics, one key question lingers: Why do women cheat?

Why Do Women Cheat?

Marriage counsellor Shivani Sadhoo says the rise in women’s infidelity is often linked to the changing roles and independence that modern women experience. With more financial freedom and career opportunities than in past generations, many women feel empowered and open to exploring choices that weren’t as accessible before. As women gain autonomy, expectations for marriage have shifted, moving from traditional roles to a desire for deeper emotional connection, happiness, and friendship within the relationship.

Additionally, relationship dynamics tend to shift over time, making it harder for long-term partners to fulfill all of each other’s needs. Today, many people look for a partner who aligns with them in terms of emotional intelligence, career achievements, lifestyle, and shared goals. As these individual needs evolve, some may seek affirmation or connection outside the relationship, especially when feelings of being desired or appreciated become less accessible in a long-term partnership.

Why Women Cheat: 7 Key Factors

Delhi’s leading marriage counsellor Shivani Misri Sadhoo shares seven factors that make women cheat.

Emotional Disconnection

Emotional intimacy is often a foundation in relationships, and when it fades, women may feel isolated or neglected. If they aren’t feeling supported, heard, or valued by their partner, the need for emotional closeness might lead them to seek it elsewhere.

Lack of Physical Intimacy

A drop in physical intimacy can make women feel less desirable and connected. This void, especially in long-term relationships, may prompt them to look outside the relationship for the affirmation and warmth they miss.

Seeking Validation

Everyone wants to feel appreciated, and when self-esteem dips, some women may seek validation from others to feel attractive and valued. This need for reassurance can be especially compelling if they aren’t receiving it within their primary relationship.

Opportunity and Independence

With increasing financial and social independence, women have more freedom and agency than previous generations. The ability to make their own choices can sometimes extend to exploring options outside their relationship when needs aren’t met.

Boredom or Stagnation

Routine can dull the excitement that once defined a relationship. When things start feeling predictable and unstimulating, women may be tempted to find new excitement and passion in a different connection.

Resentment or Revenge

Unresolved hurts or betrayals, whether related to infidelity or other breaches of trust, can cause feelings of resentment. For some women, infidelity may seem like a way to “even the score” or address the pain they’ve experienced.

Curiosity and Personal Growth

Sometimes, women may feel the need to explore or grow beyond their current relationship, especially if they feel it’s limiting. The urge to understand themselves in different scenarios or meet new people can lead to actions outside their relationship.

Cheating is never a justified choice—it’s always better to end a relationship before starting something new. However, understanding why women may be unfaithful can be insightful. Most reasons for infidelity often point back to unmet needs within the relationship. Focusing on maintaining a strong connection and ensuring both partners feel fulfilled can be essential in keeping the partnership healthy.

The friend zone happens when one person develops romantic feelings, while the other sees them only as a friend. This often occurs due to a lack of clear romantic intent or chemistry from the beginning, leading the other person to perceive the relationship as purely platonic.

Factors such as comfort, emotional dependence, or fear of ruining the friendship can also keep someone in the friend zone. Sometimes, it’s because the other person doesn’t feel a romantic connection, even if they value the friendship deeply. Miscommunication or not expressing feelings early on can further solidify this dynamic.

What are some of the ways to move out of the friend zone?

Here are some practical steps to help you move out of the friend zone as explained by leading couples’ therapists in Delhi NCR Shivani Misri Sadhoo in this blog.

Understand Why You’re in the Friend Zone

Before taking any action, it’s crucial to understand why you might be in the friend zone. This often happens when the other person sees you as a reliable friend, but there’s no romantic spark. You might not have made your romantic interest clear, or perhaps they don’t see you in a romantic light because of the dynamic you’ve created.

Step: Reflect on how the relationship has developed and what role you’ve played in it. Ask yourself if you’ve unintentionally sent out “friend-only” vibes.

Shift the Dynamic

One of the main reasons people remain in the friend zone is because they haven’t established romantic or flirtatious chemistry. To move out of the friend zone, you need to subtly change how the other person sees you. This could be done through subtle flirting, complimenting them in ways that go beyond friendship, or finding ways to create more intimate and romantic situations.

Step: Start small by complimenting them in a more personal, genuine way: “You look amazing today,” or “I love how passionate you are about your goals.” This signals your interest without being too forward.

Take Care of Your Own Life

Sometimes, people end up in the friend zone because they become too available and predictable. To break out of that cycle, you need to focus on yourself and your own life. Pursue your own interests, meet new people, and create a life that’s fulfilling without relying on their attention. This can make you more attractive because confidence and independence are key qualities that spark romantic interest.

Step: Invest time in hobbies, personal growth, and new experiences. Show them that you have a life beyond friendship.

Be Open About Your Feelings

At some point, if you really want to move out of the friend zone, you will have to express your romantic feelings. It’s important to do this in a calm and respectful way, without pressuring the other person. Let them know that you value the friendship, but you also have deeper feelings for them and want to be honest.

Step: When you feel the time is right, have an honest conversation. Keep it light: “I’ve been thinking about us, and I realize I have feelings for you. I just wanted to be upfront, but I also value our friendship no matter what.”

Respect Their Decision

The reality is, after you express your feelings, they might not feel the same way. If that happens, it’s important to respect their decision and not try to pressure or guilt them into a relationship. If they only want to remain friends, you’ll have to decide whether that’s something you’re okay with, or if it’s better to distance yourself.

Step: If they say they don’t feel the same way, respond with grace and respect. Don’t burn bridges or become bitter. Accept their feelings and move on if necessary.

Moving out of the friend zone is not a guaranteed process, and it requires patience, self-awareness, and a willingness to take risks. Sometimes, it’s possible to transition from a friendship to a romantic relationship, but it’s important to remain respectful of the other person’s feelings. Ultimately, whether or not you succeed, focusing on building a life you love and maintaining healthy relationships is always a win.