How do I Navigate an Attraction for a Close Friend of My Husband?

Dear eNotAlone: My husband and his best friend have been close friends since high school. For the past few months, I think his best friend has started to develop romantic feelings towards me and it's making things really awkward and uncomfortable. The problem is that my husband loves this guy and doesn't know how to handle the situation. Even though I don't feel the same way, I'm worried about how my husband will handle it when he finds out.

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Sometimes, being attracted to a close friend of your husband can be a difficult situation to navigate. People often fear that addressing these feelings to their spouse won't lead to the best outcome. In such situations, it is important to remember a few key points.

Firstly, it is essential not to allow feelings for the other person to become an obsession. When talking about a close friend of your husband, the focus should be kept on maintaining a positive relationship with your husband . You should also avoid any kind of romantic behavior with the other person. This may be something as simple as keeping physical distance in social situations or making sure to stay out of one-on-one conversations. Instead, concentrate on strengthening the relationship you have with your partner.

Secondly, it is important to communicate openly and honestly with your partner if these feelings start to arise. While you don't have to tell them everything, it is important to be as candid as possible about what is going on for you. If you are feeling a strong attraction to someone else, tell your partner about it. Don't try to downplay the situation or pretend like nothing is happening. Your partner deserves to know and understand what is going on.

Be prepared for the fact that your partner may not take it well. It can be difficult to accept that one's significant other has feelings for someone else, even if those feelings are not acted upon. Make sure to give your partner some space to think and process the situation without rushing them into anything. Let them know that they can talk to you whenever they need to, and that it is okay to express any hurt, anger, or confusion that they may be feeling.

Navigating an attraction for a close friend of your husband can be a complicated situation, but with open and honest communication, it is possible to get through it. It can difficult, but ultimately working through it can strengthen your relationship with your partner, allowing both of you to move forward in a healthier and happier way.