Many people with children may linger in unhappy marriages because they see there are benefits to staying with their partner (despite how they feel toward them), fearing it might be harder to be a single parent.
While it may be true having the other parent close by would allow you to put more responsibilities on them, you may find there are more advantages when parenting after divorce.
Here’s what you should know:
Regaining your individuality
Leaving a marriage to care for your child could give you more time in your life. There may be fewer arguments and difficulties with your partner once you distance yourself from them.
Some single parents find their life rewarding, refreshing and full of opportunities once they divorce. You may be able to renew friendships that you couldn’t find time for while married – or if you enjoy hobbies then you try refreshing your writing, hiking or painting skills.
Take control over how your children are raised
Kids of all ages could benefit from you being a single parent. You might find you’re able to have more one-on-one time with your kids as a single parent, which could give them the lasting memories that they need to grow emotionally strong.
You may be able to give your child more focus when it comes to their education. You may even create healthy habits for your children as they grow up.
Establish how the other parent is involved
You may want your ex-spouse to take some responsibility over your children – either because the other parent requested it, because you think it will be good for your children or because your child wants it.
If the other parent doesn’t want as much responsibility, but still wants some time with your kids then you may have more say in how they are involved. This could be good if you want to redefine how the parenting dynamic works with your kids, giving you more security over your children.
If you believe divorce is right for you then you may need to know your options when defining your life as a single parent.