Is it okay to text the opposite gender while you’re married? The answer depends on the situation. Texting with people of the opposite gender can be a tricky situation or something married couples want to approach with caution. On the one hand, they want to be polite and friendly; on the other hand, they don’t want to take things too far.
But what exactly is “too far,” and how can couples navigate this tricky topic without getting into arguments or getting caught up in jealousy? To make things easier for you, we are here to share with you some of the unspoken rules of texting with members of the opposite gender when you’re married.
1. Check with your partner if that’s something they don’t mind
Instead of starting chatting to someone online or texting them for months, only to be caught red-handed by your partner and look so guilty; why not bring up the topic and see how they feel about it first?
Your partner will probably not say that they’re fully against it in any context or situation, they may have rules or allow you to only text colleagues about work matters. But in any case, they will surely not forbid you from texting the opposite gender altogether, especially if they see that you’re open to listening to their opinion which will also imply that you have nothing to hide.
2. Everything depends on who you’re texting
Secondly, make sure that you’re not doing it with someone that your significant other doesn’t like. This means that if someone initiates a text conversation with you, and they’re not someone who’s in your partner’s good books then you may want to keep things short and quick. You don’t want to become too friendly or even almost flirty with someone that has been publicly hostile with your partner or that doesn’t get along with them.
It’s not worth risking your relationship for something as trivial as an exchange of text messages. Respect your partner’s boundaries and never engage in conversations or exchanges that could be perceived as flirting or disrespectful to your relationship, in some way.
3. Be formal
It’s important to maintain professionalism at all times when interacting with members of the opposite gender via text message or any other medium.
So avoid using slang or overly casual language; keep conversations brief and polite, and always remember that anything you say could be used against you later on if things take an unexpected turn! Make sure that you’re very cautious and try not to say something inappropriate or cross boundaries without realizing it.
4. Only text the opposite gender when you have a clear purpose in mind
If you’re going to text the opposite gender, it’s better to only do it when you have a clear purpose in mind. This is especially true for married men, as it can become a slippery slope that leads to infidelity or an emotional affair.
In simpler words, if you need to text the opposite gender, make sure that your intentions are clear and professional. Keep messages short and sweet. And, whatever you do, never get into lengthy conversations that could be interpreted as flirting. In addition, avoid discussing anything too personal; try to just stick with business matters so there isn’t any confusion or misinterpretation by your spouse or anyone else who may see your messages.