Whether you’ve been married for 50 years or 5, going through a divorce can be incredibly tough. However, being suitably prepared for the changes that are coming your way makes it a little easier for you to weather the storm. As a result, you’ll be able to view the divorce as an exciting new beginning instead of lamenting over the past.
With that in mind, here are some top tips for preparing for a divorce.
Have the conversation with your spouse.
In most cases, the writing has been on the wall for a while by the time one party in the relationship asks for a divorce. For example, 56% get divorced because they argue too often and no longer get along. Either way, the first step of the process, unsurprisingly, is having that difficult conversation with your spouse.
This will ensure that you are both on the same page, which will make it easier for you to work your way through an amicable divorce.
Educate yourself on the process.
Once you’ve decided to separate, it’s time to educate yourself on the legalities of the process so that you have an idea of what to expect. For example, getting divorced is more than signing a few papers, as there are a lot of different tasks to work through, such as the division of assets and child custody arrangements. During this time, you may need to gain access to lots of paperwork, such as tax reports, so give yourself plenty of time to gather this data.
However, it should also become apparent during your research that most divorces don’t belong in court. Nor do they need to be a long, drawn-out process. When you work with an amicable divorce Provider, you’ll be able to work your way through the process with ease, saving you time and money.
Begin the legal process.
Reaching out to a divorce Provider is the next step in your journey. However, you must find a legal provider that’s right for you and the kind of divorce you are seeking. For example, if you are splitting with your partner on good terms, you should avoid working with a lawyer who wants to take the process to court, as an amicable divorce does not need to go before a judge. At Divorce With Dignity, our Providers will always operate with your best interests at heart.
Tell your friends and family.
Telling your friends and family about your separation is a step that should not occur until you feel ready. This gives yourself and your partner a chance to find their peace with what is happening so that they do not come from a place of anger and resentment when breaking the news. More importantly, however, your children should be informed about your divorce before anyone else. This helps you to avoid them overhearing the news from a second party. Thankfully, telling your children about your divorce does not need to be a huge ordeal for everyone involved. Keep it brief and age-appropriate, telling them only what they need to know. You should also make it clear that no matter what, you will always be a family, and you will be there for them when they need you.
Embrace change.
Change can be scary, and you’ll go through a lot of it when divorcing. This is often one of the biggest reasons people stay in an unhappy marriage, as outside of their relationship, they’re comfortable in their position in life – be that their friends and social groups or home. As a result, to suitably prepare yourself for a divorce is by embracing change. Instead of viewing change as something negative, think about all of the new opportunities and experiences that will come alongside your newfound singlehood. For example, you can re-enter the dating world or find a new dream home.
