There are as many rationalizations for cheating as there are cheaters. Some people feel trapped in a sexually unsatisfying relationship due to children or financial pressures. Others are just addicted to the thrill of sex with a new partner. Cheating may not conform to modern social expectations of marriage, but the natural urge to stray does speak to the carnal beast in us all that is impulsive, instinctual and insatiable. While you won't be able to come up with a convincing reason to justify an affair (at least one that satisfies your partner), you can reduce the chances of getting caught, and thereby limit the need to spew such pathetic excuses. What follows are tips I've gathered from the private eyes at ISG who specialize in cheating spouses, my wife (who claims she has cheated on all of her partners excluding me), and my own dabblings at the edge of desire.
• Keep your lies as close to the truth as possible. A string of lies is like a house of cards. When one waivers, the rest will fall. Admit that you went over to a male co-worker's house for a drink. If something sexual had happened, wouldn't you have come up with a better excuse?
This article appears in Apr 26 – May 2, 2012.