In recent years, social media has become part of everyday life for many. In fact, while only about 5% of Americans used social media in 2005, more than 70% do so today. While there is usually nothing inherently wrong with posting to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or another platform, social media usage can complete a divorce.
Here are three reasons you may want to consider staying off social media until your divorce concludes.
1. Fanning the flames
If you are going through a collaborative divorce, you do not want to do anything to irritate or alienate your soon-to-be ex-spouse. Using social media to badmouth your husband or wife or to blow off steam, may fan the flames. Put simply, an angry spouse may be able to turn your divorce into a nightmare.
2. Making yourself look bad
In the lead-up to your divorce, you may want to use your newfound freedom to take lavish vacations, buy expensive items or close down your local pub. If you look like you have significant financial resources, you may have to pay more for spousal support. Even worse, anything that makes you seem to be an unfit parent may harm your child custody case.
3. Adding insult to injury
Jumping back into the dating pool may help you cope with the emotional struggles that often accompany divorce. Remember, though, divorce can be hard on you, your spouse and your children. If you post photos of your new love interest, your spouse and kids may feel hurt.
While some social media posts may be fine, you may not be able to distinguish between an acceptable one and an ill-advised one. Ultimately, taking a hiatus from social media may be an easy way to make your divorce go more smoothly.
