National Ex-Spouse Day

On a scale of one to Adele, how are you feeling today? When we tell you it’s National Ex-Spouse Day this April 14, is that going to make you blast “Someone Like You” and cry into your ice cream?

No need.

National Ex Spouse Day, curiously inserted into the calendar exactly two months after Valentine’s Day, has become a time to reflect on the positive moments you shared with your ex. That’s correct. Look — you married them. There must have been something you liked — that is, before they snapped.

Think of them fondly — before celebrating the fact that they’re gone.

National Ex-Spouse Day timeline

Divorce is expensive, requiring a grant by an Act of Parliament, until the Matrimonial Causes Act is implemented in the U.K.

Divorcing upgrades when the Divorce Reform Act is passed, allowing couples to divorce following a separation of two years.

Reverend Ronald Coleman of Missouri, U.S. creates National Ex-Spouse Day as a way to dispel the bitterness associated with divorce.

Actress Nicole Kidman skips her way out of the lawyer’s office after divorcing Tom Cruise.

How to Observe National Ex-Spouse Day

1. Make it all about you!

   For those fresh out of divorces, today’s a great day to focus on yourself. There are many activities that are easier to do when you’re single and don’t have to weigh another person’s opinion. So write a list of five things you want to accomplish as a single lady or lad. This will give you some focus and allow you to start making forward progress, instead of wallowing in bed or moving onto that third wine spritzer.

2. Spend time with your kids

   It’s a great day to embrace them and give thanks for the beauty that came from your partnership. Go out for ice cream and enjoy their laughs (or their whining). You can sit there and smile, knowing they got their best traits from you, and their not-so-great ones from your ex.

3. One (wo)man’s junk is another (wo)man’s treasure

   Are you still holding on to a few items that remind you of your ex? Throw them in the back of your car, drive to the nearest donation center, and leave them for someone else to enjoy. If this seems like a lot of energy to put into an ex, grab those items and have a bonfire. Yes, we know what you’re saying, National Ex-Spouse Day is a positive holiday. But who was ever sad at a bonfire?

Why National Ex-Spouse Day is Important

1. Don’t forget the happy thoughts

   Many people turn into Bitter Bettys (or Bobs) when you mention their ex-spouse. But, need we remind you, today is not the day to think poorly of them (or your relationship). Remember the reasons that led you to walk down the aisle to your big wedding — or that Las Vegas drive-thru. Reflect on the happy moments that made you laugh and grow together.

2. You no longer have to deal with their annoying habits

   What were your ex-spouse’s most annoying habit? (Calm down, we don’t have that much time here.) From popping gum to bathroom etiquette, it’s an occasion to be excited you don’t have to deal with them anymore. But, since technically today’s supposed to be a positive holiday, we’re going to make you balance each negative thought with a happy one.

3. But wait — I’m still married

   If you’re still in a happy marriage (or on to your fifth one), there are still things you can do to commemorate National Ex-Spouse Day. Take a moment to think about what makes your relationship work, and what you love so much about that special someone. But, if you’re unhappy in your marriage, maybe today is the day to consider making them your (fifth) ex-spouse. We’re not encouraging, we’re just saying.

National Ex-Spouse Day dates