Going through a divorce is never easy, but there are definitely some things you can do to make the process smoother. This blog post will give you a handy checklist of the top 10 things to do after a divorce to start moving on with your life.
1. Take Some Time for Yourself
It might be tempting to jump right back into the dating pool after a divorce, but it’s essential to take some time to focus on yourself first. Spend some extra time at the gym, take long walks in nature, or plan weekend getaways with your friends. Whatever makes you feel happy and relaxed, do more of that!
2. Sort Out Your Finances
One of the first things you need to do after a divorce is to look at your finances. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your income, debts, and assets to make sound financial decisions going forward. You might also want to consider hiring a financial planner who can assist you with budgeting, setting up a savings plan, and making long-term financial decisions.
3. Talk to Your Kids
If you have children, one of the most important things you can do after a divorce is to talk to them about what’s happening. Be honest, but also try not to overwhelm them with too much information at once. Let them know that they are still loved and that you will be there for them no matter what.
4. Seek Child Support If Needed
If you and your ex-spouse have children, seeking child support is a necessity. While it might be difficult to bring this up with your ex, it’s important for you to get the financial support that you need as a parent. Speak to an attorney who can help you file the necessary paperwork so that you can start getting the support payments you’re entitled to.
5. Create a Post-Divorce Budget
One of the best things you can do after a divorce is to sit down and create a budget. Be realistic about your income and expenses, and make sure to account for any changes in your lifestyle. For example, if you were previously sharing a car with your ex, you might now need to factor in the cost of a car payment and insurance.
6. Find Your Own Place
If you were previously living with your spouse, it’s time to find your own place after the divorce. This will give you the chance to start fresh and create a space that is truly yours. If you need some help with the cost of rent and utilities, consider taking on a roommate or joining a house-sharing program.
7. Make New Friends
After going through a rough divorce, it’s important to find new people to spend time with who can be there for you during your recovery period. This might mean looking for new friends in your current social circles, joining some local clubs or groups, or trying out a new hobby.
8. Continue Seeing Your Therapist
If you were previously seeing a therapist help deal with the stress of your divorce, make sure that you keep seeing them after the split as well. You might need more time and support than you initially thought to get through this tough time in your life.
9. Set Aside Some Time for Yourself
Whether you were previously working full-time or staying at home with the children, it’s important to set aside some time for yourself regularly. Do something that you love, and that helps you feel relaxed, whether it’s taking long bubble baths, reading a good book, or going out for regular spa treatments.
10. Start Dating Again When You’re Ready
Lastly, don’t rush into dating again after your divorce — but don’t put it off indefinitely either! Take some time to get to know yourself and work on healing before you jump back into the dating pool. But if you meet someone that you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to take a chance and see where things go!
Bonus Tip: Give Yourself Time to Grieve
It’s important to remember that a divorce is a type of loss, and as such, you will need time to grieve. Give yourself permission to feel sad, angry, scared, and any other emotions that come up. It’s okay to cry, scream into a pillow, or do whatever feels right to you as you work through your grief. By allowing yourself this time, you will be able to move on more quickly and start rebuilding your life after a divorce.
If you’re going through a divorce right now, know that you are not alone. While it might seem like the end of the world at first, there are many things you can do to move forward with your life and start fresh. Use this checklist as a guide, and before you know it, you’ll be on your way to a bright future!
