The decision to divorce is not one easily made. There are weeks, months, and sometimes years of grappling with complex emotions, including fear, anxiety, and overwhelming sadness. Then there is the time that is spent considering how the divorce will affect any mutual children. Some couples continue to stall with moving forward as they ponder whether or not they should give it one more chance, just to be certain. In other words, divorces are rarely heat of the moment decisions. Many do have regrets immediately after, but one study suggests that these feelings do eventually subside.
Why Regret is So Common After Divorce
According to a UK study, around half of all divorcees initially regret their divorce. For some, this feeling is so strong that they go back to their ex-spouse and give it another try. Unfortunately, this same study also showed that only 21 percent of these couples managed to stay together long-term. So, if regret is not the mark of a poor decision, then why is it so common?
Grief, which can occur after any loss, is a complex emotional process. Thoughts are not always rational, and self-blame may rear its head, and its various stages often cause you to romanticize how things were. All of this is normal, of course, but you do not have to act on these feelings. While going back to your ex-spouse might seem like the solution, most eventually reach the conclusion that they did, in fact, make the right choice for their lives.
Majority of Divorcees Stand by Their Decision
While the reason behind their divorce varied significantly, three out of four divorcees say they know they made the right decision. Most reported feeling a sense of freedom, feeling more fulfilled, or feeling as though they had uncovered some healthy self-identity. This effect was felt, even in the midst of depression and stress, which were likely residual from the divorce process itself. In fact, many moved on to experience a healthy, self-fulfilled life. Others eventually remarried or engaged in non-marital relationships after their divorce.
Support systems were often pivotal in a divorcee’s ability to move forward and find happiness again. This only further suggests that regrets are, quite simply, a part of the grieving process. So, if you are planning on filing for divorce and are afraid of what the future may hold, know that support, advocacy, and a positive outlook can make all the difference.
Contact Our Naperville Divorce Attorneys
At Sullivan Taylor, Gumina & Palmer, P.C., we recognize the impact that a divorce can have on your life. Committed to helping you effectively navigate through the process, we serve as skilled and compassionate advocates, handling all the legal details for you so that you can focus on the changes in your life. Schedule your consultation with our Naperville divorce attorneys today to ask how we can assist with your divorce. Call us at 630-665-7676.
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