Just curious… for those who initiated the Divorce due to reasonings other than infidelity, why did you initiate? How is life, and your mental state now (post Divorce)?

I’m dealing with ongoing marital issues, primarily feeling consistently underappreciated, disrespected, and belittled by my spouse (31F).

I (32M) work full-time and support us financially, while my spouse stays at home with our children. Currently, I’m juggling two jobs—one full-time and one part-time—to keep us afloat. Despite long hours, I still help with house chores after I finish work, often around midnight.

Despite this, my spouse constantly minimizes my efforts and insults my intelligence. There’s resentment on both sides from past arguments, but this is where we are. Divorce crosses my mind often. She claims she wants to work things out, but her actions rarely reflect that. Meanwhile, other women—not just physically but emotionally—seem far more interested in how I’m actually doing.

TLDR: I’m severely underappreciated and disrespected, despite breaking my back daily to provide for my family. I’ve expressed my thoughts to my spouse, but nothing really changes. She seems more focused on checking out other men in public—something she consistently denies—than acknowledging the father and man I am. Somehow, everything still ends up being my fault, and she’s never genuinely tried to understand my perspective.

Lately, I downloaded Hinge just to see what’s out there. I’ve received a good amount of attention from women I find very attractive, and we’ve had some decent conversations. It’s been refreshing to feel seen and valued again. I don’t plan to meet up with anyone, but it’s got me thinking… is life actually better after leaving a marriage like this? Are there women out there who will truly appreciate a man’s hard work? Are there women out there who will actually have eyes for me, and not constantly be focused on other attractive Men? Maybe my spouse has just gotten too comfortable after all these years, or maybe her Sister's recent divorce and newfound "happiness", has her feeling more is out there.

Regardless, I'm tired. I work hard, but I never actually feel appreciated or acknowledged.. it's just what's expected now. I'm an afterthought.. a bill payer, and a shell of a man, in my own home.

I'd appreciate any feedback...