Until recently, most people believed that approximately 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. As it turns out, that figure is slightly exaggerated, but that’s not to say the divorce rate isn’t extremely high.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the marriage rate was at 6.8 per 1,000 people, whereas the divorce rate was at 3.6, in 2011. With so many divorces happening each year, a few telltale patterns have emerged. These patterns are based on anecdotal evidence that could help you determine if your relationship is heading toward a split.
Of course, every situation is different. If you’re looking for a family lawyer to discuss divorce, contact us. At The Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C. in Lansing, we have more than 40 years of experience helping people like you navigate the legal side of an ending marriage. To speak with a Lansing family attorney from our office about your situation, call us today at 517-487-6603.
1. If Your Spouse Is the Primary Source of Stress in Your Life
In a healthy relationship, spouses often offer each other support. Your spouse should be the person you can rely on to help you de-stress.
Of course, all relationships go through tough times, and you will argue and fight. However, if you begin to actively avoid your spouse for long periods of time, you might want to consider a divorce.
Another way to look at it is that you should be happier with your spouse than without him or her. If you begin to look forward to business trips or time alone, it could be a sign that your marriage may not be working.
2. You Fantasize About Your Post-Divorce Life
It’s common for those who are unhappily married to imagine what their life would be like if they weren’t married. If these thoughts become a routine—or even an obsession—you may already be planning your divorce without even realizing it.
Here’s another way to tell: Ask yourself how you would feel if your spouse asked you for a divorce right now. According to the Huffington Post, if you would feel relieved, that’s a good indication you want to separate.
3. Infidelity Can Cause Problems in More Ways Than One
An affair is often a good enough reason for wanting a divorce, but infidelity has several meanings in this case. For example, if you are looking elsewhere for love, whether it’s physical or emotional, that’s a sign you are ready to end the marriage. Likewise, if you find yourself wishing your spouse would have an affair so that you could end it, you shouldn’t be waiting to bring up the idea of a divorce.
If you’re ready to speak with a Lansing family lawyer about divorce, we are here to help. We are experienced in a variety of family-law areas, including child custody, alimony and prenuptial agreements. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 517-487-6603.
