For many people, signing the divorce agreement is just the beginning of adjusting to their new phase of life. The changes to come may feel dramatic: you are suddenly single, no longer half of a couple. You may be splitting custody of a child. Your finances may be significantly impacted, as well. Needless to say, it can be disconcerting when the address you’ve used for years is no longer home.
Everyone’s experience is different. A divorce after years of marriage can be freeing, as well as a stressful, life-changing event. For the benefit of you and any children you share with your ex, it is important to be prepared for these changes and to understand how they might affect your life.
Divorce Often Requires a Major Emotional Adjustment
It can be tough to get used to life after divorce. You might feel like you’re struggling just to keep up with everything, so it’s important to remember that things will get better. It may take some time to learn how to live alone and make all the decisions yourself. This can be surprisingly difficult, even if you instigated the breakup.
However, the transition will be easier if you begin to adjust your mindset in advance, starting with the acceptance that it is not uncommon for people’s lifestyles to change on various levels. Couples who you formerly socialized with may no longer be a part of your life. You may find yourself living in a new home, working different hours, or even moving to a new city.
Expect Changes in Your Lifestyle and Daily Routine
After you get a divorce, your lifestyle will most likely change significantly. It helps to keep in mind that that’s not necessarily a bad thing. You might find yourself with more free time, but less money, no longer able to afford the same house or car. Some folks have to get a job or go back to school to support their new lifestyle.
A person’s daily routine will undoubtedly change in some ways, as well:
- More free time on some days, and less free time on others – particularly if you’re sharing parental responsibilities.
- Cooking for yourself, or the ability to stop cooking for others every night.
- Paying one’s own bills also requires adjustments for some divorcees.
- Focusing on joining a new club or activity can provide emotional support.
Working through these changes will help you adjust to your new normal.
Familiarize Yourself with Coping Mechanisms – and Reach out for Help if Needed
After the divorce is final, it is not uncommon to feel lost and alone. You might find it difficult to cope with these changes, but there are ways to make the adjustment. One way is to ease into your new routine gradually. For example, if you used to wake up at 6:00 a.m., but now you don’t have to get the kids ready for school, try setting your alarm for 6:30 a.m. and see how that feels. Talk to a friend who can understand what you are going through.
Other ways to cope after a breakup are to find a support group or to talk to a counselor. You might need to seek professional help to help you as you transition into this new phase of life. Most of all, be patient with yourself when adjusting to all the changes.
Consult Family Lawyer About Asset Division & Other Financial Impacts
Getting the legal support you need is sure to relieve yourself of some of the stress of a divorce. A family law attorney can answer your questions about how marital assets should be divided and other issues that will come up. You may feel like you have to start over completely, but your new life is just beginning.
Contact the Law Office of David A. King, P.C. to resolve any aspect of divorce, including financial matters such as asset division and spousal support. We will advocate for your legal rights and help you determine the best path forward.
