A Tampa divorce attorney will tell you that the most common reason that a client gives for avoiding divorce is that they want to stay together for the kids. Many parents have convinced themselves that it is better to stick it out in a marriage rife with contention and frustration than to divorce, leaving children with a so-called broken home.
The reality is, a home is usually far more broken if the parents do not get along and are stuck muddling through a marriage that has long since ended. In many cases, divorce actually is the best option — both for the parents and for the children.
3 Reasons You Shouldn’t Stay Together for the Kids
- There’s a good chance you will both be better, happier parents if you pursue divorce. Sticking it out in a loveless marriage is not going to make you a happy person, and that will have a direct impact on the health and well-being of your children. Many children report that they actually feel relieved when their parents finalize the divorce process, as both parents are often less stressed and more at ease. In order to be the best parent possible, you need to feel good about yourself and about where you are going as an individual.
- Your children will likely thrive once you have implemented a cohesive co-parenting plan that puts their needs first. While the idea of raising your children between two households may seem daunting and intimidating at first, it’s important to remember that many wonderful, successful parents do just that every single day. When both parents can work together with their Tampa divorce attorney and create a co-parenting strategy that prioritizes the needs of the children, the children often flourish as a result.
- Your kids will benefit from the honesty and integrity that you show as you move forward with the divorce. Children learn by example, and while the news of a divorce may sting, it will be far better for them to understand the realities of the world. Parents who pretend that everything is fine often set their children up for a lifetime of unrealistic expectations and disappointments. By showcasing that the divorce will actually be in the best interest of everyone, you also show your children the importance of being upfront and honest with those around them.
If you and your spouse have reached the point where your marriage can no longer be fixed, the best thing you can do is start the divorce proceedings and move forward as amicably as possible. Contact an experienced Tampa divorce attorney today to schedule an initial consultation.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from The Mckinney Law Group for their insight into family law.