Introduction:

As most of us have probably heard, “50% of all marriages in America will end in divorce". While not an entirely accurate assessment, this is not far from reality. The Americans for Divorce Reform estimates that "Probably, 40 or possibly even 50 percent of marriages will end in divorce if current trends continue." Getting through a divorce can definitely be a survival process for many, and this article is a guide to help you make it through this difficult process.

Your Emotions:

Stress can be one of many emotional states that are experienced as you are going through a divorce. Others may include anger, resentment, confusion, and sadness. It’s very easy to get caught up in your emotions and although it’s good to express your feelings you need to do so within reason. Letting your emotions get the best of you can affect your overall health or even the health of those around you. It’s important to focus and lean on the positive things in your life such as your kids, your friends, or even your work. One of the best cures for the divorce blues is laughter. Surround yourself with friends and family and focus on getting back to having fun. Comedy clubs, a good movie, and the ability to laugh at your own situation are great ways to get you heading back in the right direction and increase your chances of success.

Your finances:

This is one of the scariest prospects of divorce. Two incomes are definitely better than one and if you are completely supported by your spouse then this could mean drastic life changes are going to be needed. Either way, your current financial status is going to change. The key is to budget and plan early. Making a financial plan early in the divorce process can help you to determine exactly what it is you’re going to need to survive. Use this as an opportunity to get your finances and budget into shape. One of the best ways to ensure a good financial outcome is to end your relationship with as much grace and dignity as you did when you started it. The more amicable the split, the more likely each party is to compromise and make concessions when they may not have otherwise.

This is a time to downsize your life. You must now depend on yourself to organize your finances, pay the bills, build your savings, and maintain your credit. This downsizing is merely a stepping stone to get you back on track. Be sure to cancel any joint accounts or credit cards and you may need to modify the terms of your life insurance policy or other such policies. The sooner you can get yourself organized and settled into your new reality, the sooner you can get back on your feet to better manage and improve your financial status.

Your Health:

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Comfort foods may be an attractive way to drown in your sorrows, but too many bon bons and ice cream will take its toll on the body over time. This is a good opportunity to re-invent yourself. Take this opening to begin an exercise program or a new diet to get yourself into great shape. This will not only help you look better, but help you to feel better as well. Exercise is proven to release chemicals in the body to help relieve stress and depression. These new programs will help you to take your mind off of your divorce and help you to focus on what is most important...you!

More Info:

Not everyone gets through this process at the same pace. Some may need more time to grieve, whereas others may be ready to date before the ink on the divorce papers have dried. The important thing to remember here is to go at your own pace. Make a plan for success, stay positive, take it one day at a time, and remember that you have friends and family who are there to help you get through it. Do this, and you will survive divorce.