2.2 million people get married in the United States every year. Almost half of those couples end up divorced.
While the concept of divorce may seem sad given that it signifies a failed love, in many cases, leaving a toxic marriage is a necessity to continue growing and pursuing happiness.
In this brief post, we share advice on how you can get out of a toxic marriage in a streamlined and effective way.
1. Define and Communicate What Toxic Means to You
What makes up a toxic marriage is subjective. One person might see their partner being promiscuous as a source of toxicity while another partner might have the expectation of sexual openness.
To make sure that all parties are on the same page, put a definition to what you feel makes your marriage toxic. Then, communicate that feedback with your partner to see if they’re willing to make changes.
2. Become Independent
If your partner hasn’t been receptive to your feedback regarding your toxic marriage, the next step that you’ll want to take is to make sure that you have the means to leave.
For example, if you don’t have the financial means required to step out of your marriage, start working towards attaining it and anything else that would support your self-sufficiency. The less reliant that you are on your marriage to survive, the more easily you’ll be able to walk away from it.
3. Let Someone Know What Your Plans Are
As you work to build the foundation required to step out of your marriage, let a close friend or chosen family member know what your intentions are.
By disclosing your intention to step out of your marriage, you may find that the people around you are open to helping facilitate your departure. At the very least, you’ll have someone to turn to for advice by breaking the news to a loved one which can be helpful in coping with the emotional stress of exiting a relationship.
4. Give Feedback or Just Go
One of the best gifts that you can give to a partner is to impart on them feedback as to why you feel the need to leave. Hopefully, this feedback doesn’t come as a surprise to them.
By giving your partner feedback before going, you set them up to have better relationships in the future.
If your partner isn’t receptive to feedback or if communicating before leaving might put you in danger, find an opportune time to step away from your home and don’t look back. Once you’re in a safe place, details surrounding your impending divorce can be handled at a distance.
Two People Are Almost Always Responsible for a Toxic Marriage
A toxic marriage is one that’s built on negative patterns that are almost always contributed to by both partners. Be honest with yourself about how you may have contributed to your marital problems after you’ve exited your relationship.
By reflecting honestly, you’ll be able to avoid falling into the same routine in future relationships.
Love can be tough. Our digital publication aims to make it easier to navigate.
Check out more of the content on our blog if you’re interested in learning more about how you can get the most out of your relationships!
