Being single after a marriage or long-term relationship can seem like a daunting prospect. To go from sharing your life with another person, to being on your own, is a big adjustment. It can take some getting used to.
Here at Harrogate family law, we’re always trying to help our clients look to the future. That’s why, we’re sharing a few of our top tips on being single after divorce.
Focus on your positive relationships
Coming out of a romantic relationship can result in a real mixed bag of emotions. During long-term relationships, so many things become intertwined and when that stops, the gap left behind can be a struggle to deal with. But it’s important to remember that other types of relationships can be just as, if not more, fulfilling.
When you’re finalising a divorce, it’s not uncommon to feel alone, but often, you’re not as alone as you might feel. Focus on your positive relationships, whether that’s with friends, family, work colleagues, or even your pets.
In some circumstances, this is easier said than done. For example if you’ve separated from a narcissist, your ex-partner might have manipulated you into spending all your time with them, and made you feel guilty about spending time with other people.
Now is the time to reconnect with the other important people in your life. This is your opportunity for a fresh start with people who care about you and want to help; people who know your worth and want what’s best for you.
Practise independence
Your newly single status is a great time to practise independence, put yourself first and focus on your future. Marriage and relationships inevitably come with a level of compromise, because there’s always another person’s needs to consider as well as your own.
Before rushing headlong into another relationship, take some time to consider your needs and wants, and perhaps do the things that weren’t as easy to do when you were a part of a couple. It can be as simple or as ‘out there’ as you want, because you’re the one in control. It’s about feeling comfortable and getting to know yourself again.
Keep yourself busy
During a divorce, it’s likely that you’ve been distracted by all of the things involved. Thinking about the finances, house sales, and the arrangements for the children can take up a lot of your mental energy, leaving very little head space for you to think about anything else.
Once things are finalised, don’t be surprised if you find yourself with more time on your hands to think about the future. Use that time and energy to your advantage. Layering new positive experiences can be a great way to recover from a difficult divorce and move on to the next stage of your life.
And remember that keeping yourself busy doesn’t necessarily mean being as productive as possible. Use the time to relax, see friends, go somewhere new, join a gym – anything that makes you feel happy.
Ultimately, life after divorce can be a really positive experience. But to ensure that it is, having the right solicitor to guide you through your divorce is absolutely vital.
At Harrogate Family Law, we have your best interests at heart. It’s our job to make sure that the next steps you take are in the right direction. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our services.
