Divorce is never easy, in Texas or elsewhere, and as much as we all want to avoid talking about negative subjects, sometimes it is necessary to set the record straight. There are some things that everyone needs to face when getting a divorce finalized.
First, know that it is okay to grieve the loss of your marriage. Being able to heal from the loss of a relationship is directly related to your affirming the fact that this is a sad occasion. Emotions need to be dealt with and not denied.
Not associating with your married friends is a step you may need to take. Having a constant reminder that your marriage failed is unnecessary and can drag you down. Instead, you may want to find unmarried or divorced friends.
Getting an attorney in Texas is another step that needs to be taken. Believing your soon-to-be ex-spouse has your best interests in mind is simply not reality. A divorcing spouse usually has his or her own interests first and foremost in mind. Immediately agreeing to his or her demands is not very wise.
Therapy is needed in a divorce. No matter how mentally healthy you are, you need to realize that you need help getting through this painful experience.
Don’t get into a serious, romantic relationship too soon. A rebound relationship can hurt the other person involved, so you may need to wait.
Don’t confuse your professional help with your therapist. In Texas, while an attorney can advise you, he or she may not be able to offer really strong emotional support when you need it.
Protect your finances. Getting your own accounts and assuring that your name is off of all property that belongs to your ex-spouse is vital.
When you have children, and you share custody with your ex, you will have free time that you didn’t have before. Use it, and don’t feel guilty about enjoying yourself.
Realizing that your ex’s family will also divorce you is a hard reality for some to face. If you have grown close to his or her parents, the divorce will hit hard when they suddenly cut off contact with you.
Finally, realizing that things get better with time is important. It gets easier once you accept that this is your new normal. In Texas as in the rest of America, divorce can be stressful and a professional can help.
Source: Yahoo! Shine, “10 things every woman should know about getting divorced” Sherry Amatenstein, Jun. 12, 2014