If you’ve ever flirted with the idea of having an affair — even just in your thoughts — this article is for you.

Let’s start with a sobering fact:
A study of 4,200 executives who had an affair revealed that only 3% of them ended up marrying the person they had the affair with.

Three percent.

And even among those few, most didn’t find the happiness they were looking for.

An Affair Is a Symptom, Not a Solution

Affairs don’t just happen out of nowhere.
They’re often a symptom of an unhealthy, disconnected marriage — a sign that something deeper needs attention.

So if this is something you’ve been thinking about, stop whatever you’re doing this weekend and take time to reflect.

What’s really going on in your marriage?
Where is the pain, the distance, the disappointment coming from?

Instead of using these feelings to justify escape, use them as a wake-up call and an opportunity to heal, reconnect, and rebuild your relationship.

Are People Happier After an Affair and Divorce?

It’s a fair question.

And research has an answer:
People who have affairs, divorce, and remarry often find themselves just as unhappy — or even more so-within three to five years.

Now, that’s not to say there aren’t couples who divorced and found healthy, fulfilling relationships the second time around. There are.

And just to be clear: This is not about shame or judgment.

We’re not here to criticize or condemn anyone who has gone through a divorce. Life happens, and love and healing are always possible. We see you. We care. And we love you no matter what.

But If You’re Standing at the Crossroads…

If you — or someone you know — is considering an affair because the marriage feels painful, frustrating, or empty, here’s a heartfelt plea:

Please don’t give up.

Because here’s another powerful statistic:
Couples who choose to stay together and work through their struggles — even after an affair — report being happier than they ever imagined just five years later.

Healing is possible.
Connection can be restored.
And love can be rekindled — even when things feel hopeless.

There’s Hope — And Help

There’s nothing I want more than for you to be madly in love with your spouse for the rest of your life.

You really can have the marriage you dream of — the joy, the laughter, the deep companionship. It’s not out of reach.Consider finding a “Mad About Marriage Seminar” near you.  Or consider some of our books, small group courses, or the video of the seminar.  These are fun, helpful tools designed to enhance, improve, and in some cases, restart a healthy marriage.  There’s hope.  There’s help.