Coping after Divorce

Many things change in our lives after a divorce or separation. It is difficult to anticipate the challenges one faces until actually going through it. It takes time to heal and to transition from being a couple to a single person and to understand the dynamics that are presented to you. Not only are you faced with being on your own but also with how to navigate the different family celebrations that you once did together. When kids of any age are involved there are challenges to overcome that are especially hard. Birthdays, weddings, graduations and of course the holidays are all occasions where emotions can be intensified.

How does one navigate these times? There are many variables that affect how to share time together and apart during special occasions. Some of the considerations are  the ages of the kids involved, the circumstances of the divorced parents, are they able to get along? Are they with other partners? It is always important to put the kids feelings and desires as a priority. Sometimes it is much easier and less emotionally charged to do events separately. There are instances where being together for short periods of time can provide needed family time. There is always a transition time after a divorce for everyone to find their way. It can feel uncomfortable at times because it's not what we are used to feeling. It's unfamiliar and that can cause much anxiety and stress.

These occasions also bring to the surface our own personal feelings of what it is like to be a single person. What do you do if you are splitting time and find yourself alone on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Again not something that is familiar. Friends or extended family provide some safety and comfort. This is a time for new traditions and how you want to do things. Maybe there are movies you always wanted to watch or new recipes to try out? Know that it takes time to find a new way. It took years when you were married to develop your family traditions. Give yourself a break and be kind to you. There is no rule book on how to navigate post divorce life. Every situation is different and there is no one way. Do what feels comfortable to you and your family and know that time heals and it's ok to make changes as time goes on. Stay focused on you .https://sasforwomen.com/category/life-after-divorce/