The holidays are generally a time of celebration and family togetherness. So why are you thinking about a divorce now, of all times? If you are considering a divorce after the holidays, you are not alone. In fact, this is one of the most common times of the year for people to decide their marriages are over.

Divorce experts told USA TODAY that, in addition to the end of summer, divorce filings peak in March - a time when people are beginning to unwind from the stress and excitement of the holidays. You may have been unhappy in your marriage for years, or something this year finally could have made you decide it is all over. For whatever reason, the end of the holiday period also signified the end of some things, but also the start of something new.

People have various reasons for getting a divorce soon after the holidays end. These may include the following:

• Not wanting to ask for a divorce during the holidays but instead trying to present a united front when the family is all together
• Stress and arguments during this busy time of year finally leading to the "last straw"
• One last attempt to save the marriage, only to realize after the holidays are over that a divorce would be best
• The start of a new year symbolizing hope and a new beginning
• An upcoming tax return as a reason to consult an attorney

As you already know, there is no right or wrong time to decide to file for divorce. The beginning of the year can be a good time to start planning for your future, however, now that you do not have holiday shopping and planning at the front of your mind.