Chances are you didn’t plan to have a divorce conversation when you married your spouse. However, if you have determined your marriage is not working and are sure you want a divorce, you should have the talk.
Regardless of your feelings toward your spouse, it’s crucial to make informed decisions. Here are four tips to help you:
Assess their reaction
You can gauge how your spouse may react to the divorce news and, in turn, determine the best ways to deal with their reaction.
If you believe they expect the conversation, perhaps they have noticed how unhappy you are, their reaction may be more manageable. However, if they are clueless, they may be angry and confused, which can make the discussion harder.
Be compassionate
You should be compassionate when informing your spouse about the divorce. How you approach the conversation may determine their direction. While you should be honest and firm, kindness can save you a lot of stress.
Don’t blame them for the divorce
Consider using “I” statements when telling your spouse you want a divorce. You should not blame them for the dissolution of the marriage, even if you believe their actions led to the decision. Playing the blame game can result in going in circles, as they may also point the finger at you for some issues.
Choose the right time
You should choose an appropriate time to talk to your spouse. Therefore, starting the conversation before they leave for work or just before bedtime may not be the best option. Choose an uninterrupted period, possibly on a weekend, and pick a secluded location.
In addition to the above-discussed tips, it also helps to obtain adequate information about divorce to protect your interests.
