Recognizing the signs that a marriage is no longer working can be an emotionally challenging process. Yet, there may come a time when taking this step becomes necessary for your personal happiness and well-being.
Knowing when to file for divorce involves a deeply personal analysis of the marriage and your individual circumstances. There are a few potential flags that you can watch for if you think it may be time to file for divorce.
Significant and persistent unhappiness
If you are consistently unhappy in your marriage, and efforts to improve the relationship have not helped, it might be an indication that it is time to file for divorce. Everyone deserves a chance at happiness, and staying in a relationship that brings only sadness is not beneficial for either party.
Lack of communication
Communication forms the foundation of a healthy relationship. If you and your spouse are no longer communicating about your feelings, concerns or day-to-day matters, it might signal that the marriage is no longer working.
Infidelity
While some marriages can recover from an affair, repeated instances of infidelity or an unwillingness to work on trust issues can lead to the decision to file for divorce.
Abuse
Any form of abuse – physical, emotional or financial – is a clear signal that it is time to leave the marriage. No one should tolerate abusive behavior.
Different life goals
When you and your spouse have fundamentally different goals, such as whether to have children or where to live, it can be an indication that the marriage is not sustainable. This is also why a discussion of life goals, including the desire to have children, is important before marriage.
Financial disagreements
Money often causes significant conflict within marriages. If you cannot agree on financial issues and cannot find a resolution, it might be an indicator that it is time to file for divorce.
If you find yourself continually contemplating divorce due to these factors or other situations, it may be time to explore this option.
