Image from Eric Ward on Unsplash
Escaping a toxic marriage can be awful, especially when you’re trying to run a business. But it is important for you to know that leaving a toxic marriage is possible and you can be happy again. To help you understand your options, here are five tips to help you escape a toxic marriage.
1. Create Financial Independence
One reason many people remain in toxic marriages is because of financial dependence on their spouse. Perhaps the partner manages all the bills, or perhaps the partner brings in the only income.
If you’re in the position of being financially dependent, don’t worry. The first step is simply getting away. Don’t think any further ahead than that. Create a safety net for yourself and secure a home and food for the next month to six weeks. That is more than enough time to plan what to do next.
2. Get by with a Little Help from Your Friends
You only have to read this article to see how much of a dilemma it is for friends and family when they suspect you are trapped in a toxic marriage. It is awkward and hard for them to speak up, for fear of losing you or putting you in a difficult position.
Therefore, when you know you need to escape your toxic marriage, speak to friends and family about how you feel. Even if you haven’t been very close with them because of your relationship, the chances are they will be there with open arms when you need them. The support of those who love you is vital during this tricky time.
3. Utilize the Help of Charities
If you are in a toxic marriage that could be considered abusive, it is important that you seek help. If the police department isn’t a suitable source of help, or you don’t feel comfortable taking the legal route, then charities are a good idea. There is a wide range of charities to contact. Do a simple Internet search to find the ones nearest to your area.
4. Lay the Self-Care on Thick When Leaving a Toxic Marriage
Now is the time to put yourself first. Now is the time to give yourself much love and self-care.
Maybe you take a holiday, or maybe you start getting your hair and nails done. Perhaps you start doing yoga again. Learn meditation and take at least 15 minutes a day to process your thoughts.
Meditation is a much-needed exercise after going through an ordeal such as ending a toxic marriage. Whatever it takes for you to feel self-love, and to start enjoying yourself again, do it.
5. Cut Communication with Your Partner
If the person you are leaving is manipulative, then it’s important that you create space to avoid being lured back into a toxic marriage.
For example, if you have children, keep communications only about the children. If you have to, allow a trusted friend or family member to be the go-between.
There are also options to work with a co-parenting mediator to handle the day-to-day communications regarding children. To help you with this, here’s a handy article on co-parenting with a toxic ex.
You Can Escape a Toxic Marriage
In the words of Socrates, “To find yourself, think for yourself.”
By following the tips above, and by being strong, you can escape a toxic relationship. There is help available to you. Soon enough, you will be through the worst and starting a fantastic new chapter in your life.
