Unfortunately, there is no easy answer when deciding to divorce. However, giving some structure to the decision-making process can help you make the decision.
At the most basic level, you may consider making a series of lists. The obvious list may be one that gives reasons to stay married on one side, and reasons to get divorced on the other. This exercise will force you to think about the reasons you really want to divorce, and after putting down the pros and cons on paper, a decision may become apparent.
Some factors that you may want to consider include the impact the divorce will have on children, financial security, day-to-day needs, and most importantly what you don't like and like about your spouse.
Another list you may want to consider is a list of goals for your life. This can include a list of everything you wanted before you got married, as well as a list of what you wanted post-marriage. This list can help show you why you are unhappy, and perhaps show that the marriage is not the source of your unhappiness. You will want to consider whether staying with your mate advances or interferes with your goals, or whether a divorce will help advance these goals.
The point of making lists when deciding to divorce is to help you answer the question of whether you are better off without your partner. Going through the exercise of putting your feelings to paper may help clarify what those feelings and help you reach a decision.
Related Resources:
- Find a Chicago Family Law Attorney (FindLaw)
- Illinois Divorce Law (FindLaw's Chicago Family Law Blog)
- Annulment of Marriage in Illinois (FindLaw's Chicago Family Law Blog)
- Facts About Alimony in Illinois (FindLaw's Chicago Family Law Blog)
- Ask A Question about Family Law now (FindLaw Answers)
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