Whether your divorce is something you wanted or not, the pain it causes can be akin to grieving the loss of a loved one. The breakup of a marital relationship can turn your world upside down and trigger some difficult emotions. Divorce does not just represent the loss of a partnership, but it also means the end of the dreams and commitments you once shared with your partner.
Everything you once knew and understood is disrupted– your routine, home life, finances, and possibly your relationship with extended family and friends. Many people describe divorce as a roller coaster; some may even compare it to a bomb exploding in the middle of their lives. You may feel abandoned, frightened, brokenhearted, and wonder if you will ever find love again.
It’s important, though, to keep reminding yourself there is hope for life after divorce. You can and will get through this challenging time. You can move on stronger and better than ever with a renewed sense of yourself. While you are journeying through this process, here are three strategies for surviving and thriving throughout the divorce process.
Get support.
Support may mean chatting with a good friend or family member who understands your situation and can offer a shoulder to cry on. Sometimes just the act of expressing your feelings can be invaluable. You can also look at the many self-help videos, books, and online courses available on the subject of divorce.
Support may also mean enlisting the expertise of a professional or seeking out an established support group. Find and make an appointment with a therapist near you who specializes in separation and divorce. You could also enlist the help of a divorce coach. A divorce coach uses a goal-oriented process to help you create positive outcomes for your future. To find a divorce coach, conduct an online search. Interview a few, and find one you feel a positive rapport with. You could also look for a support group in your area.
Focus on your self-care.
During this transition, it is a great time to examine how you care for yourself. If you do not already have a fitness routine, now is a great time to start one. If you can, take your exercise to the great outdoors with a hike, bike ride, run, or long walk. Being in nature is a great way to put your problems into perspective. Make sure to prioritize your rest and get at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Rest will counteract the negative effects of stress. Finally, make sure to treat yourself every once in a while.
Take some time to explore and redefine yourself.
While going through a divorce, your sense of who you are and what you want for your life may be disrupted. This is a great time to evaluate yourself and your goals. Without your partner’s influence, you may be able to make choices that are more in alignment with who you truly are and what you want out of life.
Is there a class you have always wanted to take? Do you wish to move somewhere new or possibly live a different lifestyle? Would you like to develop new friendships? Want to change careers? Is there a hobby or activity you have always wanted to try? A daily journaling practice is a great way to get in touch with some of these thoughts and feelings.
Call Our Austin Divorce Lawyer Today
Finally, make sure to understand the divorce process in Texas. At Benouis Law, our Austin divorce lawyer can assist you with all stages of the divorce process. We will walk you through each step while providing sound guidance to make sure you have the resources you need to make the best possible decisions for you and your family.
To learn how our skilled Austin family law firm can assist you, set up a consultation with our team by calling us at 512-764-3932.