Deciding whether to stay in a relationship or leave is a highly personal and complex choice. Both your actions (cheating) and your husband's behavior (neglect) have likely contributed to the current state of your marriage. It's essential to carefully consider your feelings, values, and goals before making a decision.
Here are some factors to consider:
Communication: Have you both openly discussed your feelings, needs, and concerns in the relationship? Communication is key to understanding each other's perspectives and finding potential solutions.
Counseling: Consider seeking professional help, such as couples therapy or individual counseling, to address the issues in your marriage. A therapist can provide guidance and support as you navigate through the challenges.
Personal Growth: Reflect on whether you and your husband are willing to acknowledge your own shortcomings and work on personal growth to improve the relationship.
Boundaries: Evaluate whether you can establish healthy boundaries with your husband to protect your emotional well-being.
Rebuilding Trust: If you decide to work on the relationship, rebuilding trust will be crucial. Both parties must be committed to the process.
Self-Reflection: Take some time to understand your motivations for cheating and assess whether this behavior indicates deeper issues in the relationship.
Ultimately, the decision to leave or stay is yours to make. If you find that your husband's narcissistic traits are severely impacting your emotional health and happiness, it might be necessary to evaluate whether the relationship is salvageable or if it's time to move on. However, leaving a long-term relationship is a significant decision with potential emotional consequences, so it's essential to seek support and guidance as you navigate through this process.
Consider reaching out to a mental health professional or counselor who can help you explore your feelings, provide objective guidance, and support you in making the best decision for your well-being.