Divorce is hard in so many ways. Navigating the process while you are emotionally raw can make it feel overwhelming and simply impossible. If you are beginning the process, you may be wondering how to prepare yourself and your family to handle what is coming. Below are what many report as the five hardest parts of a divorce.
Taking the first step: You may have been thinking about the idea of divorce for weeks, months or even years, but taking the first step and that final decision can be one of the most difficult parts of the entire process. You may feel guilt, shame, that you are disappointing others, anger, sadness, depression and anxiety. These are all normal emotions. Once you make the decision, however, you begin a new path and can look ahead, rather than focusing only on the pain of your past.
- Helping your children understand your decision: Your children did not ask to go through the divorce with you, but there is no way around it. They feel a significant impact from your decision. Being open and honest with them throughout the process (without talking negatively about your spouse) can help them feel heard and empowered to share their emotions with you or other loved ones.
- Financial impact: Divorce can be expensive and dividing your joint property and assets can leave you feeling like you are lost financially. Try to remember that this is a temporary issue, and you will get back on your feet. There are also ways to save money on your divorce, including opting for mediation to settle the terms, rather than litigation.
- Being Alone: Adjusting to time by yourself can be another huge challenge. Loneliness around the holidays can be particularly excruciating. Try to plan time with family and friends when your kids are with your ex and find a new hobby. This will help take your mind off of being alone.
- Developing a new relationship with your former spouse: While you may hope that divorce marks the end of your relationship with your spouse, in many cases, it is just the beginning of a new phase of your relationship. Adjusting to a less emotional relationship and a more transactional one can be difficult but can also be healthier.
Benefits Of Divorce Mediation
As difficult as divorce is, you will make it through, recover and find a way forward with your new life. You may not be able to see that now, but it will happen. Johnson Mediation can help you every step of the way. Our divorce mediation services can help you navigate the process with less stress and financial burden. For more information, call us at 952-401-7599.
