When to Get a Divorce From Your Partner: 21 Questions to Ask

Deciding whether to stay or let go can feel heavy, confusing, and quietly exhausting… especially when love, history, and shared responsibilities are tangled together. Some days everything feels manageable; other days, it feels like you’re holding your breath just to get through.

You may wonder if what you’re experiencing is a rough chapter or something deeper, something that keeps repeating no matter how hard you try. Doubt can sit beside hope, guilt beside relief, all at once. Asking honest questions isn’t about failure; it’s about self-respect, clarity, and emotional safety.

There’s a difference between commitment and endurance. Understanding when to get a divorce often begins with slowing down, listening inward, and allowing yourself to be truthful… even when the answers feel uncomfortable.

Why asking the right questions matters before divorce

Big decisions rarely come with clear answers right away… especially ones that affect your heart, your family, and your future. Asking the right questions creates space to pause, breathe, and sort through emotions instead of reacting to pain alone.

It helps separate temporary frustration from deeper, ongoing patterns; it also brings quiet truths to the surface. Not every hard moment means it’s time to leave, and not every long silence means things are fine.

Reflective questions guide you toward honesty, self-awareness, and emotional clarity. When should you divorce isn’t something fear can answer, but thoughtful reflection often can… gently, and with compassion for yourself.

When to get a divorce from your partner: 21 questions to ask

When it comes to relationships, one of the most painful phases that couples may have to go through is the point of divorce. Some of them may ask when divorce is the right answer, because it is not always the right solution. 

Hence, if you are about to part ways with your partner, there are 21 questions you need to ask that will guide you on when to get a divorce and how to know if divorce is right.

1. Do you try to solve each conflict in your marriage?

This question aims to determine your intent to settle conflicts between you and your partner.

According to Dionne Eleanor Reid, an experienced transformational coach:

Every conflict is an opportunity to grow together.       

If both of you have been looking for the perfect solution to each conflict, then it might be an impossible mission because such a solution doesn’t exist. However, what partners can do is learn how to manage conflicts respectfully without hurting each other.

• Here’s the thing

Conflict itself isn’t the problem; avoidance and disrespect are. If you still attempt calm conversations, compromise, or repair after arguments, that’s a meaningful sign. Try setting rules for disagreements, such as no insults, time-outs when overwhelmed, and returning later to resolve issues thoughtfully.

2. Do you take the blame for contributing to the problems in the marriage?

Another important question to ask about divorce is whether you take responsibility for some of the problems in the marriage. In many marriages, couples would hardly want to admit their fault in conflict. Rather, they would prefer to blame each other instead of tackling the issue on the ground.

If you take a more constructive approach when addressing the problems in the marriage, you may discover that your partner might not be at fault sometimes.

• Here’s the thing

Personal accountability matters more than being “right.” If you can acknowledge your role, apologize sincerely, and adjust your behavior, growth is still possible. Practice self-reflection through journaling or therapy to recognize patterns you may unconsciously repeat.

3. Do you know the constituents of a healthy marriage?

Before you go ahead with the separation process, you need to know when divorce is the right answer. One of the ways to be sure is if you know what a healthy marriage constitutes. 

For instance, if you’ve always seen your spouse as a competitor instead of an ally, it might be one of the reasons why you have an unhealthy approach to conflicts in your home.

• Here’s the thing

Without knowing what healthy looks like, it’s easy to normalize dysfunction. Healthy marriages involve teamwork, respect, emotional safety, and shared responsibility. Educate yourself through relationship books, counseling, or observing stable couples to reset unhealthy expectations.

4. Do you feel safe in your marriage?

While you and your partner are still deciding on divorce, one important question is whether you feel safe in your marriage. 

If your partner is physically abusive and refuses to change, it might be a good reason to file for divorce. The same applies to emotional abuse because even though it does not leave physical marks, it affects the mind, heart, and soul.

• Here’s the thing

Safety isn’t negotiable. If fear, intimidation, or emotional harm exists, prioritize your well-being immediately. Reach out to trusted people or professionals for support, and create a safety plan before making long-term decisions about the marriage.

5. Can you handle the long-term financial challenges after the divorce?

When some people get divorced, they usually struggle financially for a long time, which usually happens because they are unprepared. Sometimes, the challenge of paying bills and eventually building wealth becomes harder when couples are apart.

Dionne Eleanor Reid highlights that:

Readiness for divorce is not just about money; it’s about emotional capacity, creativity, resilience, and financial planning.

Therefore, before you and your partner proceed with the divorce, you should ensure that you’re prepared for the potential financial challenges that may arise in the long term.

• Here’s the thing

Financial stress can intensify emotional pain. Before making a decision, review your budgets, debts, and income realistically. Consulting a financial advisor or divorce planner can help you prepare instead of being blindsided by unexpected post-divorce challenges.

6. Can you manage the physical and mental stress of divorce?

Not everyone knows that going through the divorce process is not a walk in the park. You and your partner must be sure you can endure the divorce’s physical and mental stress. 

For instance, will you remain productive at work during the divorce? Will you be able to maintain other relationships while attending to other important aspects of your life?

• Here’s the thing

Divorce can disrupt sleep, concentration, and overall well-being. Assess whether you have coping tools, emotional support, and flexibility at work. Building routines, exercising, and seeking counseling can help stabilize you during an emotionally draining transition.

7. Do you and your partner communicate respectfully?

Regarding discussion questions about divorce, one important question to ask is whether you and your spouse have learned how to communicate healthily and respectfully. 

If you and your partner find it difficult to communicate with each other without going through an emotional rollercoaster period, then something is wrong with your marriage dynamics. You and your partner may need to learn how to understand each other’s feelings.

• Here’s the thing

Tone matters as much as words. If conversations quickly turn hostile or dismissive, communication skills may need rebuilding. Try active listening, using “I feel” statements, or working with a therapist to relearn respectful dialogue.

8. Are you tired of trying in your marriage?

Determining whether both of you are tired of making it work in the marriage is another crucial question to ask if you’re considering divorce. Do you feel that the two of you can no longer make the marriage work because you’ve tried everything?

Dionne Eleanor Reid adds that:

Exhaustion in a marriage doesn’t mean the end; it’s a signal to pause, perhaps reassess & create some rituals/routines.

You and your partner need to identify the different aspects of your marriage where you struggle and see if you can continue to work things out.

• Here’s the thing

Burnout doesn’t always mean the relationship is over; it can mean you need rest and structure. Consider taking a pause, redefining expectations, or creating small rituals of connection before deciding that nothing can change.

9. Are external issues making you unhappy in your marriage?

Sometimes, one of the reasons why people may file for divorce is when they face issues outside their marriage, and they allow it to affect their relationship with their spouse. 

If you are experiencing external issues, you might need to discuss them with your partner so they know what you’re going through.

• Here’s the thing

Stress from work, health issues, or family concerns can spill over into marriage. Before blaming the relationship, identify outside pressures. Share honestly with your partner and ask for support rather than silently carrying resentment or withdrawing emotionally.

10. Do you believe that your marriage can still be saved?

Some couples might want to divorce because they feel it is the norm, and marriages don’t last. However, it is worth noting that no two marriages are the same.

Relationship & empowerment mentor Dionne Eleanor mentions:

The possibility of saving a marriage lies within the willingness to learn, listen & heal, not the number of years spent together or not.

Therefore, just because people are considering divorce as their best option does not mean that you and your partner should go through the same process.

• Here’s the thing

Belief alone isn’t enough; effort must follow. If both partners are willing to learn, listen, and repair, there’s potential. If only one person is trying, however, progress may remain limited despite good intentions.

11. How would divorce impact your children?

If you and your spouse have children, this is one factor to consider critically before filing for a divorce. You should be aware that pursuing a divorce will likely have a different impact on your children. Therefore, you should consider the impact of divorce on your children before making a decision. 

Knowing that the divorce process might be overwhelming for your children, you and your spouse must be sure you’re making the right decision.

• Here’s the thing

Children notice tension more than silence. Staying in a hostile environment can be as damaging as separation. Speak with child therapists or counselors to understand how to minimize emotional harm and provide stability regardless of the outcome.

12. Have you considered marriage therapy?

Before you and your spouse put pen to paper regarding a divorce, consider going for marriage therapy before making that decision. 

With marriage therapy, you and your partner can uncover the root cause of problems threatening to tear your marriage apart. You may also receive some vital intervention tips that could save your marriage.

• Here’s the thing

Therapy isn’t a last resort; it’s a clarity tool. Even short-term counseling can uncover blind spots, improve communication, or confirm that separation is the healthiest option. Choosing therapy shows commitment to understanding, not weakness.

13. Will you be happy after the divorce?

When you and your partner decide to get divorced and go through with it, there are two possible realities: you may either be happy or sad with the decision. 

To know when divorce is the right answer, you and your spouse need to be sure of your true emotions after the deed has been done. To avoid being depressed and moody, amongst other negative emotions, you might have to rethink your decision.

• Here’s the thing

Relief and grief often coexist. Visualize daily life after divorce realistically, not idealistically. Ask yourself whether the sadness of leaving outweighs the exhaustion of staying, and whether support systems are in place to help you heal.

14. Do you both feel loved and accepted

If you and your partner are wondering when divorce is the right answer, one of the questions to ask is if you feel loved and accepted. 

Your partner might claim they love you, but you may not feel the emotional connection and chemistry. You must ask your partner if they feel loved and accepted, and check within yourself if you feel the same way.

• Here’s the thing

Love isn’t just said; it’s felt. If affection, validation, or emotional presence is missing, explore why. Honest conversations about emotional needs may reveal whether reconnection is possible or emotional disconnection has become permanent.

15. Does our sex life satisfy you?

One of the common reasons why some couples may opt for a divorce is when they are not satisfied with their sex life, and one party goes ahead to cheat on the other. 

Hence, when considering questions like when divorce is the right answer, you need to confirm if both of you are cool with the sex life of the union.

• Here’s the thing

Sexual dissatisfaction often reflects emotional distance. Before assuming incompatibility, discuss your desires, boundaries, and any medical or stress-related factors. Seeking a sex therapist can open conversations that feel too vulnerable to have alone.

16. Have you considered being with another person?

Some partners may want a divorce when they wish to be with someone else. If your partner is considering filing for divorce, you can ask them if another person is involved. The same advice also applies to you, as you should let your partner know if you have considered dating someone else.

• Here’s the thing

Imagining life with someone else often signals unmet needs. Instead of acting on impulse, ask what’s missing emotionally or physically. Transparency matters; hidden feelings can deepen mistrust and complicate any future decision.

17. Do you still want to work on our marriage?

To know when divorce is the right answer, you can confirm with your partner if they are still interested in making the marriage work. 

If their answer is affirmative, it is a good sign, and you can nip the divorce idea in the bud. However, if they tell you they are no longer interested, you might consider the divorce option.

• Here’s the thing

Mutual willingness is crucial. If one partner has emotionally checked out, forcing repair may cause more pain. Clarify intentions honestly so decisions are based on reality, not hope alone.

18. Do we have plans for the future?

If couples in a marriage are considering divorce, then many of their plans for the future may not materialize as planned. 

You can ask your partner if they are still interested in making plans for the future as spouses. Additionally, consider whether you still wish to collaborate on plans with your partner in the future.

• Here’s the thing

Shared vision keeps relationships grounded. If future conversations feel avoided or empty, ask why. Sometimes fear blocks planning; other times, it signals emotional detachment that deserves careful attention before moving forward.

19. Have we exhausted all our options?

When you feel like you have tried everything, and you’re still wondering when divorce is the right answer, you can ask them if all the options have been exhausted. 

If you ask your partner this question, it shows that you are still interested in making things work, and if they have something else in mind, they might voice it.

• Here’s the thing

Exhaustion feels different from avoidance. Create a clear list of what has been tried and what hasn’t. Knowing you explored all reasonable options can reduce regret, regardless of whether you stay or choose divorce.

20. Will our family and friends support our decision?

Although marriage may involve two or more people, family and friends often play a secondary yet important role. 

You and your partner must ask each other if your family and friends will be comfortable with your decision. If you haven’t informed any of them yet, talk to them and hear their opinion on proceeding with the divorce.

If you’re considering whether a divorce is the right option for you, and there are some factors you are still considering, read this book by Susan Pease Gadoua titled “Contemplating Divorce.” This book is a step-by-step guide to deciding if to stay or go.

• Here’s the thing

Outside perspectives can reveal blind spots, but the decision remains yours. Talk to trusted, emotionally mature people, not those who project their own fears. Use their input for clarity, not permission.

21. Are you staying out of fear rather than love?

Sometimes, the decision to stay isn’t rooted in connection or commitment, but in fear of change, loneliness, judgment, or the prospect of starting over.

You may feel stuck because the unknown feels scarier than the familiar pain. Over time, this fear can quietly drain your emotional energy and sense of self.

• Here’s the thing

Fear can disguise itself as loyalty or a sense of responsibility. Ask yourself what truly keeps you here. If fear is the primary reason, consider speaking with a therapist or trusted confidant to explore your options safely, realistically, and without self-judgment.

How do you know divorce is right? Or is there hope?

If the thought of having a divorce has crossed your mind, you may be skeptical about whether it’s the right choice. This is why some couples may ask questions like, “Should I get divorced, or is divorce the right decision?”

One of the ways to tell is if you daydream about dating someone else or enjoying your single life. It suggests you’re tired of the marriage, so a divorce might be a good option.

Regarding questions like ‘is divorce the answer,’ you can be sure if you’re doing the right thing or not, using respect and trust as the yardstick. If you no longer respect and trust your partner as you once did, divorce may be the ideal solution for you.

FAQs

Still contemplating your decision? Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about divorce that can help you understand whether this is the right step for you:

• What not to do before you get divorced?

Before you get divorced, avoid confiding in your kids. This is important so that they won’t take sides. Additionally, remember that even after the divorce, you still need to fulfill some of your responsibilities as a partner.

• What do you lose in a divorce?

The question of when divorce is the right answer may be understood better when you discover what you are likely to lose when you go ahead with the separation process. You will most likely lose the following: time with your children, shared history, friends, and money, among other things.

• When is divorce the right answer?

You can tell if divorce is the right answer when you and your partner find it hard to be around each other. 

Also, if you think of your marriage and it makes you sad and you begin to nurse regrets for getting married in the first place, then a divorce could be one of the options to explore.

Final takeaway

Reaching clarity around such a personal decision rarely happens all at once… it unfolds slowly, through honesty, reflection, and self-compassion. These questions aren’t meant to push you toward one outcome; they’re intended to help you listen to what your heart and mind have been trying to say.

Some answers may bring relief, while others may bring discomfort, and that’s okay. What matters is choosing from a place of awareness rather than fear or pressure.

Whether you stay, seek help, or decide when to get a divorce, trust that prioritizing emotional safety, respect, and well-being is never a selfish act. It’s necessary, and deeply human.

Stuck in conflict and unsure how to move forward together?

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Rachael Pace Author

Rachael Pace is a noted relationship writer associated with Marriage.com. She provides inspiration, support, and empowerment in the form of motivational articles and essays. Rachael enjoys studying the evolution of loving partnerships... Read more and is passionate about writing on them. She believes that everyone should make room for love in their lives and encourages couples to work on overcoming their challenges together. Read less