How Women’s Lives Improve after Divorce
Divorce. For most, it feels like a sad ending to what started as a promising future. The grief, uncertainty, and loss of the life you knew can be a complex journey of mourning. But this life change can also be a time of incredible healing, rediscovery, and renewed hope for a better future.
Can a woman’s life improve after divorce?
What if your divorce could pave the way for a new life – one that’s filled with self-discovery, growth, and promise? What if your divorce is an opportunity disguised as a difficult life transition?
It’s not just a possibility; it’s a probability. You just have to navigate a few bumps first.
Whether you were the one to initiate it or your ex-spouse caught you completely by surprise, divorce can bring some significant silver linings. With enough time and support, most women feel that life only improves post-divorce.
More time for yourself
If you’re a mom, an immediate change to your life will likely be sharing childcare responsibilities with your co-parent. And with co-parenting, you may actually get some breathing space of your own. Without having to consider the wants and needs of a spouse, you can use your newfound extra time to revisit parts of yourself that you put aside or were long forgotten.
This may look like going out with friends, reclaiming old hobbies, or taking long hot baths without interruption. And yes, you may also be able to enjoy that quiet and leisurely cup of coffee in the morning before work.
If you’re sharing parenting time and duties with your ex, free time is no longer a fantasy; it’s a reality after divorce.
Renewed focus on mental and physical health
While you were married, chances are your needs came last. While divorce is undeniably challenging, your post-divorce life offers a pivotal time to prioritize your mental health and physical well-being.
You now have the time and renewed sense of self to prioritize your own needs. If your divorce was a strain on your mental health, you might decide to find a therapist or support group to help you mentally recharge and dive into personal growth. You might learn to meditate or practice other techniques to instill a sense of calm into your life.
Your physical health is just as important as your mental health, and physical activity can be your new friend. After divorce, you may be motivated to join a gym or learn to dance. You might take cooking classes that make getting a nutritious and balanced diet more fun. And without overwhelming marital stress in your life, you can also focus on getting enough restful sleep each night.
Learning and growing
Like any life-changing experience, divorce comes with its own teaching tools. Some of divorce’s greatest teaching tools come from honest self-reflection.
How did your own patterns and choices affect the challenges in your marriage? What do you want (and not want) in your future? How can you establish better boundaries for yourself? Accepting responsibility and understanding your role in the marriage can help you build healthier relationships in the future.
Now you have time to prioritize yourself and your growth as a person. Read. Educate yourself. Learn more about your financial life. Re-evaluate your goals. This empowerment will help you form the new life you want to live and make more conscious choices going forward.
A stronger sense of self
A bad marriage can be a serious drain on your self-esteem. Now that you’re free of that, it’s easier to recognize your self-worth and focus on rebuilding your self-esteem.
Promise yourself you will only surround yourself with people who support your growth and have qualities you admire. Invest in self-care when you’re feeling down.
One of the most challenging things you might face after your divorce is learning to forgive. We’re not just talking about forgiving your ex. You also want to forgive yourself. Put away the guilt and the feelings of “less than.” Those are part of your yesterdays. Set your sights firmly on your tomorrows. That begins with today, right where you are.
Dating
When you’re ready, the world awaits. And that includes the possibility of exploring healthier new relationships.
You’ve had the time to review the challenges of your past, the mistakes and heartaches. You now know a lot more than you did the last time you dated. You’re equipped with a better understanding of yourself and a sense of empowerment. Now, you can explore the world of romantic relationships on your own terms.
The coveted “do-over”
How many times have you looked at something from your past and wished you could do it over? This is your chance. The slate is clean. Write a new narrative. Your future will thank you.
Divorce isn’t only the end of a chapter. It’s a whole new beginning if you let it be. Embrace the changes, cherish the growth it’s allowed, and focus on the future. And feel free to join our friendly, supportive community on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Looking for a great therapist? Check out the American Psychological Association Therapist Locator.
Resources
101 Self-Care Ideas for When It All Feels Like Too Much. Annie Wright, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.Therapist Locator. APA.
