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It takes two -

If only one of you wanted to save the marriage, the situation becomes impossible for both parties, and it has to end.

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It's never easy -

This may seem like an obvious thing to say, but people can often be fooled by optimism! Divorce is always difficult, whether that's emotionally, financially, or practically.

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You need your friends -

There's nothing like divorce to make you feel alone! This is where great friendship becomes completely invaluable.

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Stop judging -

Having gone through a divorce, you are in a great position to realize that it's best not to pass judgment on other people's relationships.

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Sometimes you can't stay -

If a marriage has become extremely toxic, there comes a point where you realize that there is no sense in staying.

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Part ways amicably -

This isn't always possible, of course, but where it is, it makes life a lot more pleasant. It could also help resolve financial or custody battles.

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Sometimes you feel strangely happy -

Whether it's because you feel a new sense of freedom, or you are just glad that you are no longer in a state of constantly arguing, there are moments of true happiness.

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Mornings can be tough -

Sleeping alone again takes some getting used to. However, this feeling fades over time.

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Social engagements induce anxiety -

If you have mutual friends with your ex, you might be worried about the atmosphere. Or worse still, that your ex could be there!

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It's complicated... -

It's very strange to be divorced, because nobody planned for this to happen. It can be sad, exhausting, lonely, exciting, and scary, all at once!

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Communication is key -

The key to maintaining a happy and healthy marriage is to keep communicating. Divorced people can look back at certain moments and realize that had this real communication been there, things could have ended up differently. On the plus side, you can carry this knowledge into other relationships.

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No two divorces are the same -

Just like every marriage is different, so is every divorce. Some people will grieve the collapse of their marriage, while others will sweep their feelings under the carpet.

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There is a thin line between love and hate -

You can't really hate someone unless you loved them first. This can be made far worse by a particularly unpleasant divorce.

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It's better to be single sometimes -

It's undoubtedly better to be single than stuck with the wrong person for life.  

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It's painful to see your spouse leave -

Even if you know that it's the right thing to do, when the moment comes, it's hard not to feel very upset, lost, and confused.

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It gets better -

Time certainly can and will heal the wounds. It will get better eventually, but the process will take time. 

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Parenting can become more tiring -

If you have children, you will feel the extra burden of having to care for them separately, and you may have to deal with the fall out of their reactions to the divorce as well. 

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You can be paranoid -

Are they whispering about my divorce? Nobody likes to feel like their ears are burning, and while more often than not it's just paranoia, you may also have to come to terms with the fact that others may be discussing your relationship.

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Small things have more meaning -

Whether they are physical objects, memories of places, or even routines, it's hard not to make associations with your marriage and be thrown off-guard when  you encounter them 

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You will fall in love again -

It may take a while, and you'll have to be ready for it, but love exists in many shapes and forms, just waiting for you to notice. You will also bring things from your marriage into new relationships, both good and bad.

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It's hard to tell the children -

Whatever age they are, it will never be easy for the children. The effect it can have on them can also be significant.

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Marrying again isn't necessary -

You may well fall in love with someone else, and be committed to them exclusively, but that doesn't mean you have to marry.

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You are responsible for your own happiness -

You cannot rely on someone else to make you happy, and codependency is ultimately quite harmful. Happiness comes from within.

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You see the worst of your ex -

While it may not be the first time you have seen them behaving badly, when the walls finally come crashing down, you may see your former spouse in a very different light. On the plus side, this could help you get over them faster. 

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Losing the pet may be devastating or a relief! -

Depending on how you felt about the household pet, you might feel very happy to see the back of it, or feel heartbroken. 

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Trust your instincts -

Moving forward from your divorce can take time. But, at the very least, you should look out for the same red flags that destroyed your marriage.

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It's strange telling your parents -

Your parents should support you, of course. But you will inevitably feel like a child again when you tell them the news.

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You need to support yourself -

This applies to financial, emotional, and practical matters. Being able to move forward as an independent person is of critical importance.

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New relationships feel strange, at first -

It will always feel strange to get involved with someone else, when you thought that your whole future was mapped out with your ex. But, you'll get used to it eventually.

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Starting over can be scary -

While it can be scary to start over, it can also be exciting, and it's always worth remembering that life goes on!

Thinking of getting married? Ask your partner these questions first!

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