3 Reasons Why Couples with Prenuptial Agreements are Happier

Continuing with the theme from my previous article, I want to explore why couples with prenuptial agreements might actually be happier. In order to position the following points, let me first start by providing a disclaimer that I’m in no way endorsing prenuptial agreements.

In discussing this particular area with friends, associates and family members, I’ve learned that finances are a very sensitive matter to a number of people. Because of this level of sensitivity, a number of couples are choosing to discuss this matter on the front end of marriage, instead of waiting until divorce is looming and emotions are at their boiling point. Let’s be honest, decisions made when level heads are involved are a lot different than when betrayal, unhappiness and anger take center stage.

Here are a few reasons why entering into a prenuptial agreement may actually make couples happier in the long-term:

Your pre-marital assets are protected. As previously mentioned, divorces often bring out the most vindictive thoughts and actions. Many decisions made with negative emotions running high are often intentionally targeted at hurting the other person. With 50-60% of marriages ending in divorce, it is very likely that you or someone you know could be impacted by this unfortunate reality. If a mutually agreed upon plan already exists, then the two parties involved can follow the pre-established plan for distributing assets brought into the marriage in the event of divorce. Knowing this sensitive matter has been addressed on the front end may remove any paranoia about the other person’s motives on the back end.

Businesses entities are protected. In cases where business owners are involved, prenuptial agreements can assist in protecting a business from a spouse in the event of divorce. In business partnerships, spouses could be positioned as silent partners, which could extend certain benefits to them. Prenuptial agreements could protect the business entity from a spouse, and help avoid a very complicated legal process. Think about if you worked for years building a business only to have a percentage taken by someone who is only looking to make you miserable as part of a failed marriage. No one likes talking about insurance, but it sure helps to have it when tragedy strikes. Prenuptials could be viewed as the equivalent of insurance for failed marriages.

Peace of mind. Ultimately, men and women desire peace of mind and happiness in their marriage. There is no coincidence that as we are acquiring more in material wealth and waiting longer to get married, that protection of assets are of extreme importance as divorces percentages spike. For those who make significantly more than their spouse, prenupts help to provide peace of mind before entering into marriage. For those who have gone through divorce before, prenupts help to provide peace of mind when entering into a future marriage. For those who have inheritances, prenupts help to provide peace of mind when entering into marriage, especially when kids are involved.

The aforementioned are a few of the reasons why prenupts may lead to a level of long-term happiness for some couples. This may seem trivial or superficial for some people…and I too have my own thoughts. However, if you ask a number of people who have lost large sums of money, businesses, homes and more through the divorce process, you may be willing to reconsider. Also, remember that prenupts are basically a non-factor unless the marriage reaches the point of termination. Otherwise, two people should be able to enjoy the ride of marital bliss without concern.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Please leave your comments.

Kenny Pugh is a Life & Relationship Strategist, Author of ‘Can You Do It Standing Up?’, Speaker, Host of the Chat Kafe Radio Show, singles leader and sought-after speaker on singleness, relationships, finances and life. You can find more information about Kenny at http://www.kennypugh.com. You can follow him on Facebook at Kenny Pugh or on Twitter @mrkennypugh.