Uncoupling from a relationship means uncoupling not just from the person but from the lifestyle and the family unit. You are also untangling finances and assets, friendships and families. It can get complicated but that doesn’t mean you should stay in a relationship which isn’t working for you.
Many people do stay in relationships which have become toxic or unfulfilling – because they simply can’t see a way out. Trust me, there is light on the other side, eventually. It may not seem survivable in theory, but it does get better.
I look back on how I thought things would turn out and marvel at my own ignorance – I was so wrong. Life is so much better without the stress and strain of being someone I’m not. Find out how the pain of uncoupling can be eased, for all parties, in my book Uncoupling, an insider’s guide to separation in New Zealand.
How do you tell your partner you want to separate?
If there is no other way, you have one or more difficult conversations ahead. Even if you are both unhappy in the relationship, the one hearing the announcement will be shocked – this will be actual shock. There will likely be tears and accusations. How you behave in...
