Divorce is tough for everyone involved, from the parties divorcing to their children, if they have any, their families and their friends. It can affect everyone around the couple and it can be devastating. However, sometimes divorce is the best option and there are many valid reasons for divorce.
If you are contemplating divorce, it is important to go into it understanding as much as possible about what could happen, what will happen, and how you will feel. Going into the process this way will make it easier and more manageable for all.
Friendship shuffle
Divorce can cause friendships to reshuffle. Some friendships may end because people may feel loyal to one party over another, and other people may want to stay away from the inevitable drama that comes with many divorces altogether. It can feel like a game of musical chairs, so be prepared to see your circle of friends change.
Familiar spaces shift
One of the hardest things about divorce is the changes that take place if you leave your home. Your home might feel like your haven, and you might find yourself, depending on your circumstances, going from a large, well-stocked home to sharing a living space with roommates.
Yes—adults often experience this immediately after divorce. It can be a normal part of short-term planning and making financial adjustments.
Shaking financials
Money matters can get tricky. Divorce often means splitting finances, both assets and debts, and it often results in everyone having less.
It is important to go into the process prepared to face unexpected changes in lifestyle and spending habits. It is unpleasant, but hopefully, over time, you will adapt and eventually be able to get back to where you were before the divorce.
Shared traditions diminish
Remember those special traditions you had as a family? Divorce can dim the glow of those shared moments. It is like a favorite book missing its pages—the story changes forever.
Co-parenting challenges
Co-parenting sounds great in theory, but it is often a challenge. Schedules, decisions and different parenting styles can make co-parenting much harder than you expect.
Identity change
One aspect of divorce that most people do not know about or expect is difficulty adapting to the new person they are now as a divorced person.
Couples who have been married for a long time may find it particularly challenging to separate their identity and self-worth from their marital status after getting divorced.