Planning Your Fresh Start After Divorce

Divorce isn’t just about the end of a relationship; it also represents a new start for you. Leaving an unhealthy relationship opens up new possibilities. Here are some ways to make the most of this time:

1. Adjust your attitude toward yourself

While WebMD admits that this “may sound cheesy and New Age-y” learning “to like yourself” and not holding onto a negative image of yourself post-divorce is key to your fresh start. Negative emotional residue will only hold you back.

While no one should expect you to be happy and self-satisfied overnight, and you should definitely take time to feel and process all your baggage, being kind to yourself is especially important when newly single. WebMD also recommends exploring both who you were prior to your marriage (and rediscovering great parts of yourself that you may have compromised in an unhealthy relationship) and finding out new things about who you are/who you could be.

Rediscovering an old hobby or getting a new haircut could be a simple and fun way to reinvigorate your life and help you see your future as full of possibilities—because, while you may not feel it now, your life is now full of new potential.

2. Embrace the single life

While your newly single status can be scary, it has the potential to be exhilarating as well. As WebMD points out, “Being alone doesn’t mean being isolated and never seeing anyone. It just means not being coupled up, or in a rush to do so.”

You have the opportunity to rekindle old friendships that may have fallen by the wayside and meet new people. You could also spend some time alone indulging in a guilty pleasure or just relaxing and being okay with yourself. Moderation can be important, especially where substances like alcohol are involved, and you probably still have serious responsibilities to take care of, but post-divorce you could also have some fun on your own.

3. Start dating again

Taking some time to be on your own is important; so is heading back into the dating world once you’re ready. Doing so without the expectation of a long-term relationship could help take some of the pressure off. If you take things one step at a time (sending that first text, going out for that first drink), moving on can be less daunting.

This doesn’t mean compromising your values or your desires; just keep in mind realistic expectations and don’t make yourself settle or rush into things.

What you’ll get out of this

Taking these steps can lead to more happiness with yourself and, ultimately, with a future partner if you so desire. Going into a relationship with a sense of who you are and what is important to you will both make your single life happier and give you a better chance of satisfaction with someone else.

Are you looking for a divorce lawyer?

At Fine & Associates Professional Corporation, we have helped guide countless families through the often arduous process of a legal battle over children, property and possessions.  If you’re contemplating what a divorce will mean for your child or children, or even yourself, fill out the form to the right to get in touch, or contact us for a free consultation.