A divorce can be emotionally, psychologically, and financially taxing. If you’ve ever gone through one or know someone who has, you know this to be the case.
If you face the prospect of a divorce, you should first find the right family law attorney with divorce law expertise. You need a professional experienced at helping clients in divorce, custody, spousal support, and property division matters so that you get the counsel you require.
“Don’t just look for someone focused on family law — you need to find a lawyer specializing in divorce law,” says Rowdy Williams from Rowdy G. Williams Law Firm P.C. “If you have children, it’s also essential to find a divorce lawyer experienced in custody and division of assets issues.”
After your divorce is finalized, what next? Continue reading to look at several things you can do for yourself after a life-altering event like a divorce.
1. Take Care of Your Financial Health
The average cost of divorce weighs in at around $15,000. Of course, the more complicated the divorce, the higher that cost can go. Both parties have to sit down and hash out how the financial assets, real estate, and debt get divided. Beyond that, there are tax implications since your filing status has now changed to single or head of household. Depending on your employment situation, you may even need to make revisions to your W4 form. You can use a basic withholding calculator to see how any alterations to your W4 will impact your tax situation.
2. Take Care of Your Mental & Physical Health
You must take care of your mental health. That might require you to see a professional therapist who can help you cope with the stress of what you’re going through. If you need to open up to someone but don’t need a therapist, share what you’re going through with people you’re close to. Do you have family or friends who you can open up to confidentially? Talking to them, sharing what you’re going through, and allowing them to be there for you will help.
Do you have a regular exercise routine? If not, you should. While everyone knows that regular exercise is essential to a long, healthy, and happy life, many people don’t do enough of it.
According to one source, a mere 22.9% of the average population of adults in the United States get sufficient physical activity. Ask yourself if you’re getting enough exercise or if you’re part of the majority who aren’t. If you’re not doing enough, here are some suggestions to make a change:
- Get a gym membership
- Get some exercise equipment and exercise from home
- Take walks around the community
- Sign up for an exercise class
- Hire a personal trainer
These are just some things you can do to get fit. But you also must be mindful of what you’re consuming if self-care is the objective. Are you eating healthy meals in proper proportions? With the internet, you can get detailed instructions on preparing mouth-watering foods that will do your body good. Make it a point to start eating better — and stick to it. Having a cheat day every now and then is okay. Just ensure that it’s an occasional indulgence rather than the norm.
3. Take Care of Your Spiritual Health
Self-care involves mind, body, and spirit. If you’re religious, leaning on your faith and people who are part of your faith community can help you get through hard times. Perhaps your church has a support group for people who have recently experienced divorce. Many churches have resources to assist people who are going through challenging situations.
If you’re not overly religious or even reject the notion of religion, that doesn’t mean there’s no way to take care of your spiritual health. Practice meditation techniques to relax and focus. Start journaling to work through your thoughts, and write about things you’re grateful for.
4. Do Something Special For Yourself
Another way to move forward after a traumatic experience like a divorce is to do something specifically for yourself. Go shopping to take your mind off things, book an appointment at a spa to have people pamper and spoil you, go on a trip to visit family or friends, learn to play an instrument, or pick up a new hobby. The goal is to do something for yourself.
After a divorce, you’ll have your whole life in front of you. It’s important to take time out for healing and figuring things out. The suggestions above will help get you on the right track.
