The stigma of divorce can be taxing, especially in a country that tends to see it as a failure. For many couples, the thought of taking a step back to “start over” can feel like a massive mistake. This is especially true for those in their 40s, who have already established quite a bit in their lives, making the idea of divorce even more difficult. It can be scary, but it doesn’t have to feel that way. Divorce in your 40s can actually be a positive life change.
Advantage of Starting Over Later in Life
When starting over in your 40s, you may fear you’ll have to start from scratch and may feel hesitant to move forward with your suggestion. However, when divorced in your 40s, you could actually have a competitive edge over others who divorced in their 20s or 30s. Some of the potential advantages of starting over later in life may include:
● You have more financial security – Over the years, couples have often been able to build up a nice nest egg. With this financial padding, you may be able to begin your new life with more financial security than other divorced individuals your age.
● You have been able to establish yourself professionally – You may have a well-earned reputation in your professional field that gives you more job and career opportunities.
● You have access to better financial advice – If you have worked with and established trust with a financial adviser or accountant, they may be able to provide you with sound advice throughout the process. You will know that you are getting the best possible advice and can trust the person providing it.
● You have had the time to really get to know yourself – By the time you reach your mid-40s, you will have had the time to explore and reflect on your beliefs, values and goals. You are better prepared to dive into a new relationship with confidence.
● You can cut out some of the stressors of divorce in terms of child rearing – With no young children living with you, you no longer have to worry about custody issues or how to co-parent.
● You’ve got more life experience – Life experience goes a long way in dealing with difficult or complicated divorce issues. If you have been through it before or have friends who have been through it, you may have the resources to draw upon in making the right decisions.
Support Network
If you’re considering divorce, the thought of having to go through it can be a very stressful and tumultuous period of your life. As such, it’s important to have a strong support network that understands what you’re going through and can assist or provide a listening ear throughout the process.
When going through a divorce, a support network can come in many different forms:
● Family and close friends: Family and close friends are often the first port of call and provide necessary strength and support throughout the process.
● Support groups: Support groups can be a great way to meet other individuals who are going through the same experience as you. Not only can you share experiences and advice with each other, but you can also give each other emotional support that may be difficult for family and friends to provide.
● Online support groups: There are a number of online forums and discussion groups specifically for people dealing with the consequences of divorce and all the issues that come along with it. These groups provide a great outlet to vent or share your feelings and experiences with those who understand what you’re going through.
● Professional help: Seeking professional help is also a good way of getting the necessary support during this difficult time. A counselor or therapist can be key in helping you deal with the emotional aspects of a divorce.
Career Planning
Divorce proceedings often mean rearranging your life in general and that includes work too.
$$$ It’s important to consider the financial impact of your divorce on your career.
For example, if you’re planning on taking some time off to get your life sorted out, you may want to map out a plan for when you will be returning to work and what the process will look like. Additionally, you may need to consider the effect your divorce may have on certain aspects of your job such as promotion prospects and how it could affect your security if you are not able to achieve a certain salary requirement.
There are a number of ways to plan for your career post-divorce:
● Make a plan: Before deciding on any major career changes, it’s important to map out a plan of action. Knowing where you are at financially and what kind of lifestyle you want to live post-divorce will help you to determine your goals and objectives.
● Education and skills: Consider the type of job you would like to have or the kind of industry you want to work in. Investing in training programs or retraining for a new career may help to boost your skillset and open up new job opportunities.
● Networking: A great way to meet people in your chosen field is to attend industry conferences and seminars. This will help to expand your professional network and give you the chance to meet people who may be able to provide advice and job opportunities.
● Finances: A great way to make sure you can afford to maintain your lifestyle after a divorce settlement is to review your finances regularly and ensure that they are in shape. Knowing where your money is and planning ahead will give you a greater sense of financial security.
Self-Confidence and Self-Care
Divorce is not an easy experience and can take a toll on your mind and body. It’s important to remember that you are now an individual, and it’s essential to surround yourself with those who appreciate and value you. Here are some tips on how to look after yourself during this transition:
● Take some time for yourself: During this time, it’s important to make sure you’re taking some “me” time. Take a break from the divorce proceedings and spend time on hobbies, passions and activities that make you happy.
● Spend time with those who appreciate you: It’s important to spend time with those who are supportive and who genuinely appreciate who you are. Whether it’s close friends, family, or even new acquaintances, take the time to associate with those who will make you feel good.
● Be proactive: Taking steps to ensure that you will be okay emotionally and financially is edgy taking care of yourself. Consider investing in life insurance, making changes to your estate plans, and so on. This will provide you with some peace of mind and give you the boost you need to focus on moving forward.
● Exercise: Exercise can be a great way to clear your mind and boost your mood. It’s important to get into a regular exercise routine and take time to stay in shape and take care of your physical body.
Divorce in your 40s can be daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience. With the right mindset and approach, it can be a positive and empowering life change. With the support network in place, sound financial management, and self-care, it’s possible to create a more fulfilling and purposeful life after the divorce.
