Divorce is a tricky subject. If you want to file, you have probably been thinking about it, moving toward it mentally and emotionally, for a while. Some people consider it for years before going through with it.
However, your spouse may have no idea that you want a divorce. They have not had the same time to process it and think it over. That means it can be fairly difficult for them to hear, and you need to know exactly how to bring it up so that things go smoothly. Here are a few tips that can help:
- Pick the right time. Remember that it may be a long conversation, so choose a time when you don’t have any pressing deadlines so you can really talk.
- Don’t have this conversation when you’re angry. If you get in an argument and blurt out that you want a divorce, your spouse may think it’s only because of that specific argument, when you really wanted it for other reasons.
- Think carefully about how you think they feel. You can prepare for their reaction if you know how they feel about the idea.
- Be firm and make it clear that you’re not just thinking about it. This is what you want. You’re just letting them know.
- At the same time, be gentle. Don’t make this more aggressive than it has to be. Just stick to the facts.
- If you have kids, don’t do it when they’re home. Have your initial conversations alone, before telling them.
These tips can make it easier, but divorce still gets complicated. Make sure you are well aware of your legal rights.
