No matter how many of your friends have gone through a divorce, their tales of woe did not begin to prepare you for your own divorce. It is one thing to watch it happen to a friend’s marriage or to a character on TV, but when it is happening to you, you can’t know what to expect.
This is not only true during the emotional upheaval of the divorce, but you may be concerned that you will meet the same confusing uncertainty when things are finalized and you are on your own. You may have special concerns about how to get yourself financially on track after your divorce. Fortunately, you can take some steps to try to improve the chances of having a solid financial post-divorce future.
Taking positive steps
The main thing is to avoid lying awake at night worrying. This waste of energy can be put to better use problem solving. Instead of allowing the divorce to devastate you in every way, begin to see it as an opportunity to find a new strength and hope.
With that mindset, you can inventory your assets and liabilities. The divorce may leave you with considerably fewer assets than you had while married, but you may also be able to include some untapped skill or talent in your asset column. These abilities may lead you to new ways to add to your income.
Next, it can be important to manage your money in the following ways:
- Establish a realistic, workable, balanced budget.
- Adjust to the necessary changes in spending habits by keeping track of your spending.
- Seek advice about reviewing and revising any accounts and beneficiaries, such as those that still list your former spouse’s name as an owner or beneficiary.
- If necessary, investigate ways to increase your income.
You do not have to go through any of these steps alone. While you may find that the divorce has relieved you of some of the friends you shared with your spouse, the true friends will remain and will be there to help you through the dark times. Additionally, there are professionals to assist you with any financial and legal issues that may cause you confusion or frustration.
With your new, optimistic outlook, you may be able to see these challenges as opportunities to learn and grow as a person. You may soon see yourself becoming a happier, healthier version of yourself.
