Relationships are complicated things that have the ability to bring out both the best and the worst in us. As a married couple, it is not uncommon for the passion to fade or for interests to differ over time. While small differences and arguments are a normal part of a healthy relationship, there are some situations in which marriages cannot be saved. In such instances, as difficult as it is, moving on and engaging in the services of a family law firm is often the healthiest option for everyone involved. In today’s article, we have a look at 5 signs that indicate a marriage is over and that is it time to let go, so read on to find out more.
1. When Children Bear The Burden
As sad as it is, it is often the children who end up suffering the most during a divorce. Life as they know it has suddenly taken a 180 when their parents no longer get along, and if you find that your children are being affected by your relationship with your spouse, it just may be time to sever ties. Many people make the mistake of staying together “for the children”, and although this selfless act often seems like the best option, it has the potential to do more harm than good. Children require a healthy environment to thrive in, and if you are getting into daily arguments with your spouse at home, there is a high chance of them feeling guilty, helpless, or even acting out in aggressive ways themselves.
2. When “We” Turns to “Me”
Marriage is an agreement to work together as a team throughout thick and thin, but as soon as one party starts mentally checking out or stops working as a team, it just may be time to call it quits. Of course, mediation is always advised before making permanent choices, but if you have tried to work on your marital problems but still find that you’re struggling to work as a team, sometimes letting go is the best option for all. According to Dr. Justin Lehmiller, a researcher at The Kinsey Institute, paying attention to the pronouns you use is a great way to gauge how you feel about your spouse. Pronouns such as “me, mine, ours, us” and so on are great indicators of how close you feel to your spouse and vice versa.
3. Forgiveness Isn’t An Option
In situations where there has been infidelity or another breach of trust, finding it in your heart to forgive your spouse may seem impossible. Many couples have bounced back from infidelity and have even formed a stronger bond with their partner after struggles in the marriage, but if you think that forgiveness isn’t an option, then there is a good chance that your marriage has reached its expiration date. Staying married while being unable to forgive is the perfect recipe for resentment, anger, and even disgust, which is why in such situations, knowing when to let go is best.
4. Toxic Home Environment
Your home should be the place you can relax at the end of a stressful day, but oftentimes when relationships are strained, the home turns into more of a warzone than a comfort zone. If your home environment is toxic and you’re unable to catch a moment that isn’t filled with arguments, fights, or in some cases even physical abuse, then the time to let go is definitely now. Toxic environments can leave permanent emotional scars, trauma and a variety of other psychological damage which can have adverse long-term effects on both parties, so knowing when to call it quits is important for both your mental and physical health.
5. You Already Have An Exit Plan
Lastly, if you find yourself making preparations or planning for a future that doesn’t involve your spouse, then you can be almost certain that it is time to let go of your marriage. Have you been searching for other jobs in a nearby town? Perhaps you’re looking to be more financially secure so that you can support yourself without your spouse. An exit strategy is essentially having one foot out of the door already, so if you find yourself making plans or curating a future sans a spouse, you can be pretty sure that your marriage is on the outs.
Although divorce is never something that most couples think about when they enter a marriage or relationship, it is important to realize that not all relationships are meant to stand the test of time. Knowing when to let go can be one of the healthiest things you do for yourself, your partner and any children involved. We hope that this article has given you some helpful insight when it comes to identifying the status and future of your marriage. All the best!
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