Leaving your spouse is hard, even if you’re serious about ending your marriage and starting a new life. Once you’ve spoken with a Raleigh divorce lawyer and determined when to break the news that you want to go separate ways, you have to actually do it—and in the face of an emotionally distraught spouse, it’s easy to lose your wherewithal and second-guess your decision.
Separating Emotions from Facts
After spending years together, it’s hard to see your spouse break down with grief, hurt or anger. However, if you’ve exhausted all your options, tried counseling and eventually ended up talking to a Raleigh divorce lawyer, you’ll have to face your own emotional discomfort and move forward.
By looking at the big picture and realizing you’re making a decision that will leave everyone happier in the end, it might be easier to focus on breaking the news to your spouse. The tone you set now will affect the rest of your divorce, so thinking ahead will put both of you on the right path for a better outcome.
How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce
Don’t put your spouse in an even more awkward position by telling him or her you want a divorce in a public setting. No texting or phone calls, either. This should be a face-to-face discussion that shows your soon-to-be ex that you respect him or her as a person, and it should take place at home or somewhere you’re both comfortable.
Acknowledge How Your Spouse Feels
Realize that you’re talking about a life-altering decision that your spouse may not be prepared to accept. Remember, though, that your spouse wants the truth; don’t sugar-coat or provide misleading information like “We might be able to work it out” if you don’t intend to follow through.
Why Setting the Stage is So Important
Your Raleigh divorce lawyer can tell you that a little cooperation goes a long way. Whether you’re trying to work out a custody agreement or you’re trying to figure out who gets what marital property, being kind to your spouse from day one of the divorce process will help foster a cooperative, collaborative situation where you can both come out satisfied.
