As young girls, many of us dreamt about our wedding day, wearing white princess dresses and marrying our Prince Charming. However, life isn’t a fairy-tale, and a happy ending won’t lie in an unhappy marriage. But how do you know when it’s time to walk away from your partner and start a new journey on your own?

Firstly, nobody can tell you to get a divorce – the decision has to come from within and feel right for you. After all, it won’t just impact your life, but your spouse’s and any children you might have.

Having said that, separating from a relationship that isn’t benefiting you can, and will, bring more peace to your life, which will be better for everyone in the long run.

If you have considered divorce, know you are not alone, as the current divorce rate in the UK is 42 per cent, with as many as 100,000 British couples legally separating in 2019.

According to president of Dating.com Maria Sullivan, one of the first signs divorce might be on the cards is being constantly put down and devalued, “leaving you feeling insignificant and doubting all the abilities you were once confident in”.

Speaking with Woman’s Day, she said to be aware if you or your partner are no longer making an effort in the relationship.

If neither of you are taking time to listen to each other; you are disconnecting from each other due to work commitments, busy social lives or being distracted by the children; one party has unrealistic expectations and is unable to accept there will be changes in married life; or you or your partner are unwilling to compromise and you’re not on the same page anymore, these are strong signs the relationship needs some help.

Of course, a lack of intimacy and interest in sex is also a strong tell-tale sign, particularly if you aren’t bothered to do anything about it.

For advice on how to approach this huge decision, talk to a life coach in central London today.