According to a new study, being rich might increase the likelihood of a couple getting a divorce.
According to research conducted by the Federal Reserve Board, a greater difference in a couple’s credit score could spell disaster for their marriage. In fact, the larger the discrepancy, the higher the risk of separating within the first five years of a marriage.
The study goes on to mention that couples who both have high credit scores are among the most likely to have successful, long-lasting relationships. Financial issues are the largest stressors in a marriage and those who are on the same page will be more successful both romantically and economically.
This study may help shed some light on why between 40 and 50% of marriages end in divorce. But for those of us who have married the wrong partner, sometimes the divorce process is inevitable.
And picking yourself up after a divorce can feel impossible. It results in an entire lifestyle change that can leave you reeling from the stress.
On top of that, divorce is somewhat contagious. Studies show that if you get divorced, the likelihood of a close friend or relative getting divorced also rises. People are nearly 150% more likely to get a divorce if they are friends with multiple divorced individuals.
After your divorce has finally been settled, it’s important to engage in healthy activities that make you feel good about yourself and others. Here are some key notes of advice to follow if you’ve been struggling with the throes of a divorce.
Use online dating in moderation
One of the most exciting parts of getting back into the dating world is trying the new online options to meet people. Between Tinder, Bumble, and OkCupid, it seems everyone is trying to jump onto the online dating wagon. There are an estimated 1,800 dating websites and apps available, though some are more successful than others.
But like all dates after a divorce, you should approach this act slowly. Even though some matches online can result in dates, more lead to nowhere. On top of that, countless scammers and catfish may try to take advantage of your vulnerability during this stressful time. Avoid this by taking your time getting to know someone online before meeting them in person.
Start a new hobby
A divorce can also be seen as an act of reclamation; instead of settling for your old life and marriage, you can engage in activities you’ve always wanted to do. Some of the best hobbies are those that nurture self-growth and creation.
Try taking that art class you’ve always wanted to sit in on. Try asking your neighbor for advice when you start your first garden. Over the course of 2013 alone, nearly 113.5 million people engaged in gardening across the United States. If you’re worried about starting a new hobby, you have the support to try just about anything.
Go on a trip
When you become untethered to another individual, why bother staying tethered to one place?
Experiencing new cultures and meeting new people is a great way to make you feel more connected during a period of disconnect. The world is much bigger than your divorce, and traveling can help open your eyes to new possibilities. The act of traveling after a divorce hasn’t become a trope for nothing.
More and more people are falling in love with the idea of travel. In fact, 2013 was the first year where more than three billion people flew on a passenger plane. Flying now is safer than ever.
Rely on your friends
Even though your friends may be more inclined to get a divorce after you do, they’re not copy-cats. In fact, they’ll want to be there for you during your time of need. Remember to share experiences with your friends and lean on them for support when you need them most. After all, that’s what friends are for.
Divorce is never easy, but following these social tips may help you feel better in the long run.
