How to Find the Courage to Ask for a Divorce

Telling your spouse that you no longer want to be a family is one of the most difficult things you’ll ever do, even if both of you agree that your marriage is no longer bringing you happiness and stability. How to start such a painful, emotionally-taxing conversation? Here are a few tips to help you find the courage and strength to ask for a divorce and start the divorce process. 

Contact a Good Divorce Attorney

Hurt people react unpredictably. No matter how well you think you know your spouse, you cannot anticipate their reaction when confronted with the reality of a divorce. A hurt spouse may seek to hurt you by taking control of the financial and practical aspects of your separation. Unresolved emotional issues can verge to court disputes. The only way to confidently start a conversation about divorce is to contact a good divorce attorney in advance. 

An experienced attorney can help you protect your interests and make the best decisions for your family, without getting dragged into legal battles. By talking with a lawyer, you will feel more prepared to tackle the challenges that may arise before, during, and after your divorce. You will be able to start a conversation about separation without worrying about your future. When researching Salem affordable divorce attorney options, choose an attorney that prioritizes a collaborative approach, so you can avoid the court. 

Evaluate Your Financial Situation

Money is a big reason for contention in the divorce process. Many people are afraid to ask for a divorce because they worry about the damage this will do to their financial situation. Out of anger, a spouse can impulsively raid the joint accounts, leaving the other completely stranded. 

Before even bringing up separation, obtain financial statements to protect your joint accounts. Gather as much financial information as possible. This will make you feel more relaxed when discussing the divorce with your spouse as you will have protection in case they act rashly. 

Find a Support Network

The moment you ask for a divorce you separate yourself psychologically and emotionally from your spouse. This is a key reason why it’s so difficult to start this discussion; most people are afraid of the loneliness, the lack of direction, and the forced independence that come with this decision. 

To prepare yourself for this major change, make sure you have a reliable support network. Talk with your family and close friends about your difficulties and ask for their support. You don’t have to reveal details of your intimate life if you’re uncomfortable with that, but make sure to communicate that you are facing a difficult situation. A support group can help you develop the much-needed emotional resilience first to demand a divorce, then to face the painful transition to a new life. 

Even if you still have a civil relationship with your partner, a conversation about divorce can easily veer in an uncomfortable direction. There are many delicate things to discuss, so the wrong words can hurt the other and cause a confrontation with legal repercussions. Use the tips above to find the right tone for this painful conversation.