Divorce is tricky business, but if you’re aware of the warning signs, your relationship stands a much better chance of survival. Not sure what some of the warning signs are? We’re here to help. Here are four biggies.
1. Money Arguments
One of the biggest reasons that people choose to file for divorce relates to money. Financial distress can put a great deal of pressure on one or both parties and drive two otherwise compatible people apart. It’s best to discuss financial differences ahead of time and have absolute openness with how you spend and save.
2. Rush To The Altar
The problem with getting married quickly — even if you’re absolutely sure you are made for each other — is that you are making a decision without consulting your brain. In the early stages of a relationship, you’re just getting to know one another and you’re running on emotion more than you are on common sense. There’s a general rule that you shouldn’t even consider marriage until you’ve had your first fight. Stick to that, at minimum, and you stand a better chance of avoiding divorce forms.
3. Divorce Has Touched Your Inner Circle
Divorce has shown tendencies of being contagious. For some reason, if people in your inner circle sign divorce papers, you’re at a higher likelihood as well. It may have something to do with the fact that friends tend to share similarities and influence one another with behaviors and decision-making. Whatever the reason, it’s a sign that you should pay attention to.
4. The Age Gap
If you and your spouse are separated by 10 or more years, then you run a high risk of divorce because life goals are usually so drastically different, even if you think that you share ideals at first. The phases of life bring different goals, and if one spouse is in the party stage while the other is saving for retirement, it can mean big trouble for the relationship.