Marriage is not always easy. Couples that deal with consistent issues can strain their relationship and they may be faced with the decision on whether to stay or go. Let’s explore the subtleties of marriage and deciding to stay or go.
The Choice to Stay
The Importance of Commitment in Marriage
The question of commitment is among the most crucial ones people consider when determining whether to remain in a marriage. The National Library of Medicine noted a couples commitment to be one of the important predictors of marital continuity and stability. Commitment can help them to persevere through difficult times and get over obstacles together. A marriage can provide opportunity for personal development. Couples that communicate, compromise, and are resilient can strengthen and improve their relationship.
Benefits for Family Structure and Child Stability
According to the Institute for Family studies, says children who grow up with married parents are more likely to do well than kids who grow up with only one parent. A stable family system usually gives kids more resources and safety, making the home a better place to grow up.
The Choice to Leave
Remaining in a marriage may not always be the best course of action. You may ask if the connection is bringing fulfillment, respect, and love. To maintain the marriage, would you be sacrificing your own happiness and well-being? Choosing when to part ways depends heavily on this introspection.
Convincing Questions and Opinions
People may question many things when determining whether to stay or go:
Have we tried every counseling
therapy or communication development to save the marriage?
Is there mutual respect, and consideration for each other
Explore if there is mutual respect, care, and a commitment to the same ideals.
Are we Forgiving or Holding onto Resentment?
Getting over anger can make it harder to rebuild and move on together.
Are we staying together out of Love or Fear?
Figuring out why you want to stay is important for making a good choice.
Practical Considerations for Leaving
Questions to Address Before Deciding
You might ask yourself the following useful questions:
Housing Options
Where will I live? Assess your housing options, whether they include renting or purchasing a new home, temporarily residing with friends or family, or applying for transitional housing assistance.
Division of Assets and Debts
How will we separate our debts and joint assets? Think about the division of assets including real estate, investments, savings, and personal items. Talk about the expenses, such credit card debt, loans, and mortgages.
Co-Parenting and Child Custody
Will we be able to co-parent? If you have children, discuss with your spouse your co-parenting arrangements, including child support, custody, and decision-making duties. Make your kids’ best interests a priority when having these conversations.
Support System
What support do I have in place? Determine who or what organizations can provide you with direction, practical help, and emotional support when you divorce. There are friends, family, support groups, certified divorce coaches, and community and religious resources.
Practical Arrangements and Notifications
Make plans for the practical details, like moving utilities, changing your mailing address, and notifying pertinent parties (such as banks, insurance companies, and employers) of your marital status change.
Setting Goals
What are my short- and long-term goals? Make both short- and long-term plans for your career and personal life. To assist direct your choices and planning, set reasonable goals for your house, money, career, schooling, and personal growth.
Your preparation for the end of your marriage and your proactive attempts to confidently and clearly negotiate the problems ahead will be enhanced if you address these practical issues and considerations.
The Decision to Stay or Go Is Deeply Personal
Marriage, deciding to stay or go is ultimately a very personal and complex choice. People have to face their fears, weaknesses, and realities. What counts most is that people honor their own needs, principles, and dignity whether they choose the path of independence or reconciliation.
Take advantage of a FREE 15 minute discovery session with The Bridging Coach to ask questions and get help. https://calendly.com/thebridgingcoach/15min
