Going through a divorce is never easy, but following these tips can help make the process less stressful.
The overall rate of divorce is declining right now, but there are still many couples every year who decide to call it quits on their marriages. There’s nothing shameful about divorce, and if you’re going through one, you’re in good company. But how can you manage one?
Even under the best circumstances, divorce is unpleasant. It doesn’t, however, have to be a stressful experience if you play your cards right.
We’re here to talk about a few tips that can help you keep your divorce as stress-free as possible. Read on to learn more.
1. Communicate
This isn’t going to be an option for everyone, but if you and your spouse are still on decent terms, try to keep communicating throughout the divorce process.
Divorces can be amicable, but it’s challenging to keep them that way. There are a lot of emotions involved even in amicable divorces, and it’s easy for things to turn south. Do your best to maintain a level head.
When you communicate, you know what to expect. You and your spouse can work together to find terms that work for both of you. This will take a lot of the drama out of the divorce process, and you’re both more likely to end up with results that you’re happy with.
2. Get a Good Lawyer
Many people think that lawyers are only for non-amicable divorces, but this isn’t the case. Whether you’re on good or bad terms with your spouse, having a good divorce lawyer on your side is going to be helpful. Divorce lawyers know all of the local laws, and they understand how to navigate them. Great divorce lawyers in London will know how the property has to be divided in the U.K., for example. The average layperson may not.
However, if you are located in Boca Raton, hiring a local attorney who specializes in family law and divorce may be more beneficial. An experienced Boca Raton divorce lawyer will not only be familiar with the laws and procedures in your area, but they will also have a network of resources and support to help you throughout the divorce process. The right lawyer can make all the difference in achieving a favorable outcome for both parties involved.
Ideally, even in an amicable divorce, each spouse will have their own lawyer. This will keep things fair.
A lawyer will also help the divorce process go more quickly. The quicker it’s over, the less stressful it will be.
3. Consider Mediation
You can have both a mediator and a lawyer for your divorce. They serve similar purposes, but both are helpful.
A divorce lawyer is only on their client’s side. They want what’s best for their client, regardless of what works for the other spouse. A mediator tries to get both spouses to see eye-to-eye so they can come to an agreement.
A mediator is great for spouses who are not on good terms at all. The mediator will act as a neutral third party, so you and your spouse can discuss the divorce in a safe and fair environment.
4. Don’t Post on Social Media
This is a huge mistake that some people make now that it’s fashionable to put everything online. Avoid posting too much information on social media. Remember, everything you post can be used against you.
Of course, it’s natural to post about your life and the fact that a divorce is happening. Beyond that, keep anything about the actual legal process to yourself.
You should also avoid posting too many personal details. For example, posting about buying expensive new clothes may cause problems down the line when the judge is deciding how money and assets will be divided. A lawyer could use that post to determine that you have more money than you let on.
5. Stay Informed
During the divorce process, you may be tempted to just hand the case over to your lawyer and let them do the work. While they’re the experts, you want to stay informed about what’s going on throughout the process.
Make sure you’re checking in with your lawyer as frequently as they’ll allow. They may be able to help you further if you catch a potential problem or mistake in the case early on.
6. Prepare for Independence
Preparing for independence is challenging, but if you want your divorce to be as stress-free as possible, start as soon as you can.
Consider working with an accountant to make a new budget for yourself. Some things may have to change depending on if there is alimony or child support involved in the case, but you can get a general idea of how much money you’ll be able to spend and save as a single adult.
If there are things you’re not used to doing around the house because your spouse did them, take time to learn (especially if you’re still living together). You’ll be doing them on your own soon.
7. See a Counselor
It’s always a good idea to see a counselor when you’re going through a major life change! A counselor can help you work through any complicated emotions that the divorce may be dredging up. There are many benefits of therapy and counseling that will last a lifetime, even if you only participate while the divorce process is actively ongoing.
Some couples even choose to do counseling together while they’re divorcing. This is similar to mediation, but it has a stronger focus on the relationship between the spouses. Often, divorced couples can end the process on better terms. This is great for divorced parents who need to maintain a good relationship with their children.
Individual, couple, and family therapy will all help you during this stressful time.
8. Practice Self-Care
Never forget the importance of self-care during the divorce process. Take time for yourself. Visit a spa, get some exercise, and spend time with friends.
Consider taking up a creative hobby like painting or writing so you can use it as an outlet. This will help you keep your mind on other things aside from the stressful divorce.
You can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself. Give yourself some grace.
Keep Your Divorce Stress-Free With These Tips
These tips will help you keep your divorce as stress-free as possible. Divorce is never fun, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful event. Work together with your spouse, your lawyer, and a good mediator to make the process a breeze.
