SHOULD I FILE FOR DIVORCE?
Deciding to end a marriage is a difficult decision; more questions than answers may come to mind. Divorce is a life changing event. It should change your life for the better, not the worse. Divorce is a very personal decision. No two cases are alike, but there are some questions you can ask yourself to determine if divorce is the right decision for you:
- Do you want to make the marriage work? If the honest answer is, "No, I really don't want to try to make this work anymore."; you are ready to divorce. If you want to make the marriage work, but have not exhausted all options to work it out (marriage counseling, open communication with your spouse, or an honest look at your flaws), then you should not call it quits until you are satisfied that you gave it your best effort.
- Are you emotionally ready to handle a divorce? Divorce can be emotionally draining and unsettling. Before filing, you want to be strong and ready to make good "business" decisions for your financial future and for your children. You must be ready to think clearly and take charge of your life. If you are not strong enough to set the emotions aside, you run the risk of making poor financial and parenting decisions.
- Do you look forward to your future post-divorce? If your thoughts and plans focus on life after divorce; you are emotionally ready. If you find yourself living in the past and wondering what you could have done to make it work; if you can't see yourself happy after divorce, you may not be ready to file.
When contemplating divorce, it is smart to talk to three professionals before you file… your counselor, your financial advisor and your attorney. These professionals can help you prepare for divorce emotionally, financially and legally.
