1. Allow yourself time to grieve
Divorce is a big deal and it is ok to take time to be sad
and upset. Divorce can take its toll on you both mentally and physically. Don't
be too hard on yourself if you don't feel like you can enjoy the activities you
used to take pleasure in. And if you are
concerned that if you let yourself grieve you will never return to normal life,
you can put a time frame for your grief period. Figure out how long you need to
feel sad and set an end date. Although this may seem silly, it can help you get
back on track after a healthy grieving period.
2. Embrace your single life
While the single life is definitely different from marriage,
for many people it can be a refreshing time to rediscover who they really are.
Take time to figure out who you really are and what you like to do. Have fun.
Enjoy not being in a relationship for a little while.
3. Find good friends or a support group
Having good friends, especially those who are single, can be
very helpful during and after your divorce. It can be hard to relate to your
friends who are still married, but having a friend or two who have gone through
a divorce, and understand what a roller coaster it can be, can be great to talk
to.
A divorce support group can offer the same relief to you
both during and after a divorce. Sometimes it may be hard to find other single
friends or single parents so attending a divorce support group can help you
find others who have experienced similar situations. And it is also possible
for you to find friends from the support group.
4. Take good care of yourself
Among all of the chaos that can be divorce, make sure to
take time for yourself. You deserve time for a night out with friends, a good
dinner, a candle lit bubble bath, or time playing golf. Make sure to schedule
this time in your week. This can be especially important if you are now a
single parent. Figure out who can watch your child or children for even just an
hour so that you can relax and regroup.
5. Look forward to
your future
Yes, the future can look scary. It may seem daunting to look
at your future without someone by your side. The obstacles that appear may seem overwhelming. But instead of being weighed
down, look at the positive aspects of your new freedom and future. What have
you always wanted to do that your past relationship didn't allow? What do you
want to do with your life? Make a plan to make the future you want become a reality.
