You tried everything– counseling, long talks with a partner, even bits of advice from dear friends. But it seems that at this moment, marriage is gone beyond saving. The relationship with your spouse turned sour, and you cannot see him or her in a good light. Now you think it is time to step away from the marriage and start your life anew. While it may seem like a simple task, some things need to be thought out and explored before deciding to begin the process.
Be sure of your decision
It would be best if you never put life-altering decisions into action while you feel angry or sad – especially the one such as ending your marriage. It may seem tempting to finish it all as quickly as possible. However, this action will change your life in many ways, and you owe it to yourself to think it through. Do not be too shy to ask for advice from either counselors or friends who went through similar experiences. Various factors can help you determine if you can heal your relationship or it is doomed to fail. In many legal systems, you can pull from divorce decisions right up before the judge’s ruling. So even if you begin the procedure, you can stop it at (almost) any time.
Think about the children
Suppose you have children with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, it is essential to think about the best possible arrangements that will enable them to enjoy both of their parents. Child support, times for visits and sleepovers, trips should all be thought out through and through. It is vital to stay on good terms with your spouse if that is possible as it will make children’s experience with divorce much more manageable. Do not talk bad about your spouse in front of them, as they love you both and will struggle too with the whole situation.
Consider the legal aspect
In Australia, the court will grant you divorce only if they consider marriage broken down irreversibly – that is, you must be separated for a full year and a day. And that is just one of many legal aspects you need to consider. There are others such as fair sharing of assets obtained in and out of marriage, or do you agree on using mediation or prefer going to court. Either way, if you live in Australia, be sure to research family lawyers in Sydney and pick reliable professionals. Their advice in various aspects of divorce is tremendous.
Prepare Financially
If there is one aspect of life that changes the most with the divorce, this is it. It is crucial to prepare for it by setting aside money as soon as possible. If the divorce process prolongs, legal fees may add up significantly. By saving money, you are also preparing yourself for sudden expenses or family emergencies. Separation brings a new reality, and those who adapt to it faster may find it easier to make the right decisions concerning their financial future. Just remind yourself that you have the power to create new economic opportunities, both now and in the future.
Look for support
Social support is of the utmost importance when going through a difficult phase in life. You may feel like hiding, especially at the beginning of the divorce process. Legal issues, children’s emotional needs, and your own may make you think you need to isolate yourself from the rest of the world. You need to rest and replenish your energy, but do not forget to socialize – even if it means forcing yourself to do it. Tell your friends what you are going through, share how you feel, ask for their support. Above all, if you think you are grieving for the life you lost, do not hide it. Be aware of how you feel and accept it, for it is a natural process, and your mood will get better in due time.