While some divorces blindside a spouse, it is not always the case. If you can see that a divorce is on the horizon, you should prepare for it. It’s like an oncoming storm that you should hunker down for, getting all the essentials in order to make sure that you can coast through it without worrying about a surprise around every corner. One of the first things that a spouse in Columbus, Ohio, should do to prepare for a divorce is consider the level of dependency that is apparent in the marriage. If you are completely dependent on your spouse for income, you may want to work toward getting a job as soon as possible.
Of course, there is the option of spousal support, but no divorcing spouse should expect to be able to live on alimony payments alone. Typically, spousal support is designed to only contribute to an ex-spouse’s finances, not be the entirety of them. Speaking of finances, if you have been allowing your spouse to manage the checkbook for the entirety of your relationship, now is the time to acclimate yourself. While doing this, try to get a picture of what your expenses will look like and determine if you will be able to financially survive a divorce. If you can, wonderful. If you can’t, it’s time to start considering your options.
Some people will stay in a relationship because of this financial dependence. While this may seem to be a logical move, it may mean that you will stay unhappy for years to come. If you can take control of your future by preparing for it, you should do so. During this process, you should consider the things that you have always wanted to do and work towards them, as well. It may make you a much happier person than you ever were when you were married.
Source: Huffington Post, “Life After Divorce: Why Every Woman Needs a Plan B” No author given, Sep. 02, 2013