Mention the word “divorce” and you are likely to get sympathy from those around you. Whether you have gone through a divorce yourself or know someone who has, you are probably aware that ending a marriage can be a stressful situation. If you are considering one, expect that people may try to talk you out of it.
This is because, to many people, divorce still carries some stigma. Marriages are supposed to last forever. You vowed to stay together for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, and in sickness and in health. Breaking those vows means that you are breaking a sacred promise you made to your spouse on your wedding day.
This may be true in some respects, but think of it this way: Do you really want to be miserable the rest of your life? Sure, you made a vow, but people change. Your spouse may develop an addiction. He or she may end up cheating on you. Maybe he or she abuses you and your children. Are those valid reasons to stay together?
You should never feel as though you must stay married to someone who does not make you happy. That is why divorce was created. In Florida, you can file for no-fault divorce. You do not need a reason other than “irreconcilable differences.”
While it may seem as though getting a divorce is easy, the actual process can be complicated and frustrating Splitting up assets and determining child custody are not easy tasks. There will likely be many challenges along the way. You may feel overwhelmed. You may have anxiety over finances and living situations. You may worry about how the kids will cope.
These are normal feelings. While divorce is associated with negativity and may be one of the most stressful events you have ever dealt with, ending your marriage can actually have many benefits, as well. Here are some advantages of filing for divorce and ending a toxic marriage.
You Have More Freedom
Marriage means constantly thinking about the other person. This can be mentally and physically exhausting. Wouldn’t it be nice to come home from work and just relax? After a divorce, you can. If you do not want to cook your wife’s favorite five-course meal, you do not have to. You can order a pizza and watch TV all night if you want. Nobody will be there to tell you no.
You Get to Explore New Interests
When you are married, you get so caught up in trying to make the other person happy that your own interests get put on the back burner. Once you divorce, though, you no longer have to sacrifice what you want to do just to satisfy your partner. You can use this time to do things that you enjoy. If you ever wanted to learn an instrument, take painting classes, or go back to school, now is the perfect time to do it.
You Can Develop New Friendships
The responsibilities of marriage often leave little time for social activities. Once you are divorced, though, you can spend your evenings and weekends as you please. There are many opportunities to meet people. You can join a divorce support group or take a class.
The end of a marriage is also a good time to reignite old friendships. You may not have seen your best friends in months or even years. Make arrangements to catch up over lunch or dinner.
You Get to Find Your Perfect Match
Life is too short to be miserable. If your spouse is no longer your ideal mate, then why stay married? While divorce can be more complicated as you get older, that does not mean it is impossible. More and more couples are divorcing in their 50s, 60s and beyond. It is not too late to find your soulmate—someone who really understands you and can make you happy. Your spouse is not going to change. Do not spend the rest of your life thinking about what could have been.
You Will Not Have to Fight Over Money
Many marriages end because of money squabbles. If you and your spouse never saw eye to eye on finances, you no longer have to waste your time fighting over spending habits. Once you divorce, your money is yours to spend as you please. You no longer have to worry about how your ex spends his or her money, either.
Your Kids Will be Happier
Contrary to popular belief, kids are not happier when their parents are unhappy and stay married. Kids would rather have both parents happy, and this can happen once you get divorced. Sure, having to go to two homes to visit parents may be a bit of an adjustment for your children, but they will feel less tension once the parents no longer have to live together in an unhappy environment. Plus, you will likely be better parents because you will be happier and more relaxed. So, if you are thinking of staying married for the kids, ditch that thought and go with your gut.
Seek Legal Help
While divorces are typically highly emotional events, it is helpful to look on the bright side when
ending your marriage. While ending a long-term relationship can be devastating, it is important to understand that you will be fine.
A divorce can offer a fresh start in terms of your finances, love life, career and social life. Palm Beach divorce attorney Scott J. Stadler can help you prepare for life post-divorce. Schedule a consultation by calling his office at (954) 346-6464.