While the circumstances surrounding a separation may differ from person to person, divorces will often be both mentally and physically draining for couples who’re parting ways. During these difficult times, it is crucial that you focus on your own health and well-being to ensure that you’re able to navigate your day-to-day life more successfully and avoid any negative developments in your mental health.
But what does focusing on yourself during a divorce look like? If you anticipate separating from your partner, here are five tips for coping as you navigate your divorce.
1. Boost your confidence with a new wardrobe
Arguably one of the most-reported consequences stemming from divorce is lower self-esteem and confidence. Separating from your partner may sometimes make you feel as though you weren’t good enough for them, causing you to feel as though you are unattractive and unworthy of love. The truth, however, is that you’re completely worthy and lovable. You just have to embody these traits to get back into the right mindset.
But how can you get started? One great way to regain your confidence is to dress up and reinvent your look. This may include buying that petite little black dress you’ve had your eye on, which can make you feel attractive whether you’re in the house, going to work, or even just running errands. You can also change up your wardrobe by not only adding new, stunning dresses but accessories like sandals, fine jewelry, overcoats and jackets, and other items that really make you stand out. Remember, you don’t need a special occasion to stand out. If you want to wear that perfect little black dress in the daytime, do it. If you want to dress up for a cocktail hour, it’s your choice.
2. Get professional support for your divorce
Having a little support as you navigate your divorce can go a long way in helping you cope with the many feelings you’re experiencing. One of the first main areas of support you should look into is legal advice, such as family law attorneys in Stroudsburg, PA. Having the proper legal counsel will give you the peace of mind you need. Many attorneys and law firms offer a wide range of legal services that align with your best interests.
Of course, finding support should go beyond just the legal issues of a divorce. You may also need emotional support to better navigate your separation. Building multiple layers of a support network by reaching out for help to friends and family, divorce support groups, and mental health professionals will give you the coverage you need when you feel like venting or need support for any overwhelming emotions.
3. Focus on yourself and get excited about the future
A divorce is a loss. It’s the loss of your old life, the loss of your partner, and the loss of the stability you previously felt. However, a divorce can also represent new hope. You now have a single identity in which you can explore your own interests, where you want to go in life, and what is next for you. Use this time to set new goals for yourself and to truly evaluate when you want out of your life. This may be just the thing you need to propel you forward and past the difficulty of your divorce!
4. Allow yourself to feel any and all emotions that you experience
Going through a divorce can bring up a multitude of feelings. Some of these difficult emotions may include sadness, numbness or indifference, severe grief, depression, guilt, and anger (towards your partner or towards yourself). What’s important to remember is that all of these feelings are valid, and they must be felt and acknowledged so that you can move forward. Whatever may come your way, let it in, experience it, evaluate it, and keep moving forward.
Separating from your partner can be stressful, but there are ways to work through your feelings and move forward more successfully. If you and your partner are planning on splitting, the five tips for coping listed above will help you heal and recover as you navigate the oncoming divorce.
