According to several estimates, the average length of time a couple stays married is 7.2 years. No two marriages are the same, and there are many different reasons why couples in Pennsylvania choose to divorce. Infidelity, financial problems, and the simple stress of managing daily life are just a few examples. However, there is strong evidence that predicts when these problems begin to take their toll on a marriage, giving credibility to the theory of the eight-year itch.
Why eight years?
Experts say that in the first years of marriage, your partner plays a significant role in your life. Perhaps marriage was your escape from a difficult home environment and your spouse became a bit of a savior in your eyes. Or maybe your spouse helped you to create the life you wanted by becoming a parent or establishing a household. The point is life tends to be interesting and exciting in the beginning of marriage.
By the time year eight rolls around, you may have settled into a life of parenting, paying bills, and going through the seemingly endless routine of daily living. Some of the magic you felt in the beginning for your partner may have dissipated, and you now notice more flaws in your relationship than before. This is where the danger of divorce looms its ugly head.
How to protect your marriage
Keep lines of communication open, and don’t be afraid to talk about issues that are bothering you. Your partner cannot fix a problem they do not know exists, and you can’t assume they are aware of your unhappiness. Also, try to spend time together doing activities that bring you closer. Having fun with your spouse is a great way to rekindle your relationship and avoid potential marital issues.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, divorce maybe the only option. If this happens, it is still important to communicate with your spouse in a friendly and loving manner as much as possible. Good communication can help you reach a fair divorce settlement and a good future for you and your family.