Embracing Life After Divorce
Divorcing from a spouse can have a major impact on many facets of your life including your identity, newfound financial independence, and family dynamic. It can also give you the freedom to make different choices regarding your relationships with other people. However, if you’ve just undergone a separation such as a divorce, chances are you may still be reeling from it emotionally. Here’s how you can work through this life-altering change and live a healthier, happier life.
Take some time for yourself
Feel free to spend this first year focusing on yourself without all the guilt. “Divorce can be a complicated legal and emotional battle, but what people don’t really talk about is that divorce is an ongoing evolution,” reports a story in the Huffington Post. So give yourself the time and space to fully feel your emotions at every stage of the process. Whether it’s anger, fear or grief, remember to not be so hard on yourself and know that you are not alone. Many people are going through or have gone through a separation and have come out all the better for it.
Get organized
Now that you’ll be tackling life’s responsibilities all on your own, you may need to take on a more active role in your affairs. Rebudgeting your lifestyle, for example, may help you determine what you can and cannot afford on one income. It could also be beneficial for you to write down a list of goals you want to accomplish. Perhaps make a vision board so you can see what you want out of life, and then list the steps you need to take in order to get there. You could even go so far as to design a new environment and home that reflects your new life.
Develop healthy habits
Look at this as an opportunity to let go of bad habits and embrace new ones. Find activities that reduce your stress levels whether it be traveling or finally pursuing your dreams and hobbies. Take small steps toward happiness and build your confidence by trying new things you may not have done before. For example, exercise is beneficial in that it helps you to blow off steam and relax your mind, body and spirit.
By working meditation and yoga into your daily routine, you can gain a deeper understanding about yourself and the journey.. Bring a book everywhere you go just in case you need an “escape,” or spend time in nature by hiking, visiting parks and even gardening. Get an animal as a new companion or hang out with family and friends more so you don’t feel lonely. Even volunteering can give you a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In terms of moving forward after a divorce, perhaps the best thing you can do for yourself is create a more positive mindset. Look at this as a chance for a new beginning and fresh start. Think about what you need from a healthy relationship and how you can grow as a person so that your next one may thrive. Women’s Divorce points out that, “That discomfort and struggle in the beginning of any change in life will soon disappear.” Be aware of your blessings instead of focusing on the negative. By putting in the hard work and rebuilding your life for the better, you will be the happier for it later.
