There is stigma attached to divorcing young. Just as marrying young can distance you from others, so to can divorcing at a young age. Your friends or family may not understand how to react to your situation. They may even be scared about their own relationships and project attitudes by complaining that you did not try hard enough or that something is wrong with you.
Be prepared to not have your marriage taken seriously. People will judge your short marriage because you did not spend decades together, have children, or invest in expensive assets together. Some may view the entire experience as a “trial marriage.” You may feel judgement, especially if you enter into a second serious relationship soon after your divorce.
Just because your marriage was short does not mean that your divorce is not complicated. The truth is, divorce is challenging at any age, any time and everyone handles it differently. People who have been married for years can have easier divorces just as short marriages can have miserable ones.
Chances are while you are out busy seeking a divorce, most of your same-aged friends are busy getting married and having children. Thus, it can be hard to ask for comforting support from people who have not been in your position. Try to reach out to specialized support groups that connect other young adults.
Its difficult for most people to take anything positive out of a divorce. But there are many positive things to take from this experience. You have learned important life lessons about yourself, finances and relationships that you will carry into your next relationship. It’s an opportunity for you to create a fresh life for yourself and finally do the things you’ve dreamed of.
Announcing a divorce can come with negative feelings attached, especially when you are a young adult. Sometimes, good people just do not make good partners. It’s better to figure that out while you are still young and have all the opportunities in front of you.
Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) Toronto ON
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