Spouse refuses to work

[arabian]

It's pretty difficult to motivate someone who is hell bent on not working. It is more difficult to motivate someone to work if they are in a very comfortable situation and who can survive quite well without extra income. Some people also like to receive SS to somehow stay in touch with their ex, like a security blanket. SS can also work both ways as it gives the payor a sense of control over what the recipient does with their life. Lump sum settlement severs the ties of dependency. While you will always have your children in your life, and if they go on to post secondary school you will be paying dearly for that, your relationship with your ex will probably become less entwined.

Good luck. I am pleased to hear you get along well with your ex and that you have a good relationship with your children.