Deciding whether to proceed with a divorce before or after the holidays is a complex and deeply personal decision. If you are weighing this decision, while there is no one-size-fits-all answer concerning how you should proceed, there are some things that you’ll want to consider carefully before committing to a plan of action either way.
For many people, the holidays are traditionally a time for family gatherings, celebrations and togetherness. For many couples, initiating a divorce just before this period can amplify emotional strain, not only for the spouses but also for children and extended family members. If the holidays hold significant sentimental value or if you have young children, it may be worth postponing the filing of your divorce to avoid disrupting family traditions and causing additional stress during this time.
On the other hand, if your marriage is already causing significant emotional distress, waiting until after the holidays can feel unbearable. In such cases, starting the process before the holidays might offer relief and allow you to approach the season with a clearer sense of direction and purpose.
Do you have kids?
For children, the holidays are often filled with excitement and anticipation, and introducing a major life change like divorce can overshadow the joy of the season both immediately and in years to come. Parents may want to consider waiting until after the holidays to announce a separation to maintain a sense of stability and ensure that children can enjoy the festivities without linking this time of year to such consequential news.
If you do decide to wait to file, it’s important to maintain a cooperative and positive atmosphere during the holidays, even if tensions are high. Keeping the focus on the children and creating happy memories can help ease the transition when you decide to move forward with your divorce.