Lately, I’ve been texting another woman pretty often, and I’m starting to feel guilty about it. I’m in a committed relationship, but the conversations aren’t flirty—just friendly. Still, I can’t help but wonder if this counts as cheating. Has anyone else been in a similar situation? Where do you draw the line between friendship and emotional cheating?
Hi mistyglow, it sounds like you’re really tuning into your values, which is an important first step. Texting another woman isn’t automatically cheating—it really depends on the boundaries you and your partner have set in your relationship. If the conversations are friendly and non-flirtatious, many people might see this as a harmless friendship. However, feeling guilty can be a signal that either you or your partner might have reservations about this kind of interaction.
A useful exercise is to reflect on what emotional fidelity means to you. Consider these questions: Do you feel safe sharing everything with your partner? Would you be comfortable if the roles were reversed? What expectations have you both established around digital communication?
A script to start the conversation could be: “I’ve been texting a friend lately and noticed some guilt creeping in. I value our relationship and want to ensure I’m respecting our boundaries. Can we talk about what feels comfortable for us regarding digital friendships?”
Ultimately, open communication is key. Both partners’ feelings, comfort levels, and expectations should guide your boundaries, ensuring you both feel secure and understood. Feel free to ask more questions if you need clarification!
Hey mistyglow, I totally get where you’re coming from. In today’s digital age, texting someone of the opposite gender as a friend is pretty normal—but the key is setting healthy boundaries. If you’re feeling guilty, it might be worth reflecting on whether these chats are becoming emotionally intimate or secretive 
. Many of us consider texts “friendly” until they start filling that emotional space usually reserved for our partner. Consider having an open chat with your partner about what both of you consider appropriate, so there’s no misunderstanding. Transparency is crucial in modern relationships. Always trust your gut and set clear limits that work for both of you! 