They say that you never forget your first love. The first taste of love and a first divorce have a lot in common; they both can take your breath away. After saying “I do” to lifelong marriage vows, divorce can be devastating.
They also say time heals all. After you regain your breath, you might begin to contemplate the idea of giving marriage another chance. Subsequent marriages have distinct challenges all of their own, and it is important to consider the facts before you say “I do” again.
Challenges with remarriage
There are numerous hurdles that remarriage presents couples intent on making it work this time. You’ll want to identify these so that you can overcome them.
- The statistics: Before deciding to tie the knot again, it can be helpful to know some statistics about remarriage. Second marriages have a significantly higher divorce rate than first marriages. It is a common misconception that the divorce rate is 50%. Researchers now say that it is somewhere between 35% – 50% and has been declining in recent years. By contrast, divorce rates for a second marriage range between 65% – 80%.
- Children from a previous marriage: Having a blended family with step-parents and step-children is a unique challenge that the first marriage may not have had. Additionally, having kids from a previous marriage may bring with it financial obligations such as child support.
- Trust: Letting down your guard after being divorced can be a personal obstacle. In the aftermath of a divorce, people learn to be fiercely independent and self-reliant. Learning to trust again takes time and is a continued process of personal growth.
Every marriage is unique, but knowing the odds are against you can be empowering. Making an informed decision about a second marriage can help to increase your odds of success.
If you haven’t thoroughly considered the risks of a second marriage, now might be the time to start.