Could It Have Worked? Over 50% of Divorced People Say Yes

Could It Have Worked? Over 50% of Divorced People Say Yes

Introduction:

A recent social media post from 8 At The Table sparked conversation with a bold claim: “Over 50% of divorced people say they could have made their marriage work—if they had the tools, the patience, or the timing.” This message, paired with the phrase “Cheat to stay, not to leave,” forces us to reevaluate modern approaches to commitment, divorce, and emotional endurance in relationships.

The Statistic and Its Implications:

While the claim isn’t sourced to a specific study, it reflects sentiments echoed in several relationship surveys. Many divorced individuals have admitted in hindsight that their marriage might have survived with better communication, emotional regulation, or external support like therapy. It raises the question: Are people leaving too soon, or are they staying without addressing root issues?

Cheating vs. Healing:

The phrase “Cheat to stay, not to leave” is provocative. It suggests that some individuals cheat not out of malice or to abandon their spouse, but as a coping mechanism to endure a marriage that feels unfulfilling or emotionally neglected. While this doesn’t justify infidelity, it reframes it as a symptom rather than the sole cause of marital collapse.

Lack of Tools and Timing:

A significant takeaway from the post is the emphasis on “tools, patience, or timing.” Many couples marry without learning how to resolve conflict, regulate emotions, or navigate life changes. Timing matters too—some relationships fall apart simply because one or both partners weren’t in the right emotional or financial state to build a sustainable life together.

Emotional Labor and Regret:

The image of a woman with her head in her hands drives home the emotional weight of divorce. Regret, exhaustion, and unresolved feelings often linger long after the legal papers are signed. This visual reinforces the idea that while divorce ends the marriage, it doesn’t always end the emotional connection.

Conclusion:

This post isn’t just about divorce. It’s about the conversations people avoid, the support they never got, and the lessons learned too late. If over half of divorced individuals believe their marriage could’ve worked, maybe the real issue isn’t incompatibility—but lack of preparation, healing, and support. The question isn’t just “Why did it end?” but “Could it have been saved?”

Call to Action:

Whether you’re married, divorced, or dating, take the time to invest in emotional education. Relationships require more than love—they demand skills. And sometimes, what we think is the end could have been a turning point with the right tools.