Any legal process goes more smoothly when you plan in advance. That’s just as true for divorce as anything else. However, it can be hard to plan for a divorce if you have no idea that it’s coming until your spouse gives you the paperwork and asks you to sign.
With that in mind, you can see the value of knowing what relationship red flags may mean divorce is imminent. If you see them, even if you don’t ask for the divorce yourself, you can start doing your homework and preparing so that you’re ready. Some common red flags include:
- Your spouse is very immature and it leads to conflict. This is especially difficult because they may not be able to move beyond such conflict until they mature more, and you have no control over that.
- You and your spouse do not communicate well. This may mean you just don’t talk enough or that the communication styles you both prefer are different.
- You simply do not trust each other. For instance, every time you go out with your friends, your spouse becomes very concerned that you’re actually having an affair.
- Your spouse tries to be incredibly controlling. Couples should work together to make decisions. When one person is too controlling, it takes a toll.
- You have financial issues that you can’t resolve. This is often worst when you both simply look at money differently and you can’t agree on anything.
If you see these red flags — or others — and you suspect that your marriage is going to end in a divorce, take the time to get your paperwork in order, consider your legal options and set yourself up for success.