When you first got married, life probably seemed blissful. You and your spouse were happy and you each could do no wrong in each other’s eyes. But that honeymoon phase never lasts. As time wears on, you, your spouse, or both of you may begin to question if this marriage was really such a good idea. It may have seemed like it at the time, but now not so much. If you find yourself questioning whether you would make the same decision to get married if given the chance, perhaps it is time to look into divorce. Read on to learn the warning signs that it may be a time for divorce or marriage counseling.
Warning Signs
No Trust
This is perhaps one of the biggest red flags that may mean it is time for divorce. Whatever the cause, without trust a marriage cannot succeed. Your spouse is supposed to be the person you trust the most in the world, so if that relationship pillar is gone the marriage will surely falter. Whether through infidelity, dishonesty, or disrespect, loss of trust should send you if not to the divorce attorney, at least to the marriage counselor.
Infidelity
Speaking of trust issues, infidelity is a major cause for loss of trust in a marriage. Cheating can be physical, mental or emotional, or all of the above. But if your spouse seeks out someone else before they go to you, this can spell disaster for trust in the marriage. Some couples are able to withstand infidelity, but many others are not. If you are willing to work through it, go for it. But prepare yourself for a long road ahead and a lot of work to regain what has been lost. On the other hand, if you cannot abide cheating, then it is time to head for the divorce attorney.
Lack of Communication
Perhaps the biggest piece of making a marriage, or any relationship for that matter, work is communication. If you and your partner cannot or will not be open with each other, then what is the point? Communication is the foundation for every other part of the marriage. Even arguments are an important part of building the relationship, as long as they are done without accusation or name calling.
No Respect
Hand in hand with open communication is respect. If you are having an argument with your partner and it devolves into yelling and name calling, this is an obvious sign of lack of respect for each other. You should be able to have open communication and differences of opinion while still treating each other fairly and decently.
Loss of Self
If you wake up one morning and realize that you do not recognize yourself anymore, then it may be time to step away from the relationship. If you have given up on your dreams and desires in order to stay in the relationship, then soon you will have set aside everything that makes you unique and you. You cannot stay in a relationship that stifles the little things that make you who you are.