When a couple has reached the point where they’re ready for a divorce, they’ve imagined what life will be like without the other person around. That walking on eggshells feeling will be gone, the constant tension will disappear, you’ll have your own turf back and no one can tell you what you can or can’t do. Many people, however, encounter unexpected feelings during their Michigan divorce, like loneliness, frustration, overwhelming responsibility, and fear. It’s important to think about the present and the future as you consider a divorce.
Is Divorce Harder Than Marriage?
Ask someone who’s in an unhappy marriage whether divorce is harder than marriage and they’re likely to say no. They truly believe that anything must be better than the unpleasantness they’re enduring. For some couples, divorce really is the best option, but there are important questions to consider as you mull over this major life change, and how it affects people beyond yourself.
- What will life be like without the support of your partner, in both good times and bad?
- How will your lifestyle change because of divorce?
- How will you help your children cope with divorce?
- Will divorce negatively affect your career?
- How will your financial situation change if you have a one-income household or you’re the one paying child support or spousal support?
- Are you prepared to be single again?
- Are you mentally and physically prepared to handle divorce?
You don’t want to avoid a divorce you believe in your gut is necessary because you don’t want to fight or you’re afraid to hurt your kids. If your marriage is unhealthy and should end, it will all ultimately work out, though it won’t be easy along the way.
If you’re still doubting whether divorce is the right path to take, take time to consider the above questions thoughtfully and carefully before you say, “I want a divorce.”
Being a Parent During and After Divorce
In the state of Michigan, parenting time is usually divided as equally as possible – for some parents this means far less time with their kids, for others it means far more. How will you cope when you miss your kids if you don’t see them every day, or you’re not the one putting them to bed every night? If you were not the major caregiver but are now expected to manage all aspects of daily care on your days with the kids, it will be a challenge and a learning curve.
Parenting from two different homes also requires a branch of organization that didn’t previously exist. Drop-off and pick-up and shuttling kids to and from activities and events – already a complicated matter – can become a logistical nightmare with two people having to negotiate and keep track of a schedule.
If you were a stay-at-home parent but chose to or had to get a job because of the divorce, you now have a nanny or after-school care to consider, which is an added cost. You’ll be solo parenting much of the time, which is a mental and emotional burden.
Are You Ready for a Michigan Divorce?
Divorce is a major change, and it’s a decision that should never be taken lightly. If you are prepared to end your marriage and ready to talk about getting a Michigan divorce, schedule your initial consultation with the divorce lawyers at Michigan Divorce Help in Macomb. Contact us today to schedule your visit.