Our Blog - AMF Divorce

Going through a divorce can be emotionally and financially challenging. As you navigate the complexity of ending a marriage, you may notice the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies the process. Emotional reactions can sabotage your financial decisions, leading to choices that may not serve your best interests in the long run. In this blog post, we'll explore six considerations to keep in mind that can help you manage the 'money crazies' during your divorce. Cultivating awareness of your emotional reactions during this time can help you make informed, rational decisions that safeguard your financial future. Self-Awareness is Key Emotions can run high during a divorce, and it's not uncommon to experience feelings of resentment, anger, and impatience. These emotions can lead to abrupt decisions, often driven by a desire for revenge or simply wanting the process to be over with. It’s important to be self-aware and recognize when these emotions cloud your judgement. When you can step out of your emotional reactions, you can prevent decisions made in the heat of the moment that may not be in your long-term financial interest. Seek Support from a Divorce Coach Managing your emotions during a divorce can be incredibly challenging and addressing your emotional needs is key to a fulfilling future post-divorce. While expecting the judicial system to address your emotional needs is unrealistic, a divorce coach can be an invaluable resource, providing emotional guidance and helping you make rational decisions during this tumultuous time. They can help you process feelings of frustration, anger, confusion, and sadness, ensuring that your emotions don't steer you off course financially or emotionally. Don't Let the Process Overwhelm You A divorce is a process that takes time for a reason. Avoid letting it consume your life entirely. Set specific times to focus on your divorce proceedings, and do your best not to let it overwhelm you. Prioritize self-care by reducing stress, spending time with friends and family, engaging in activities you enjoy, exploring new hobbies, and getting adequate sleep. Maintain your overall well-being by working on your emotional health. By identifying opportunities for self-care and committing to healthy habits, you'll be better equipped to handle both the complexities of the divorce and the changes you’ll experience post-divorce. Handle Sensitive Areas with Care Recognize that both you and your spouse may have sensitive areas that need to be addressed during the divorce. Avoid neglecting these issues and consider seeking professional support when necessary. Family therapists, mediators, professionals, or lawyers can help facilitate productive conversations, ensuring that these sensitive topics are addressed without causing further emotional turmoil. Stand Firm Against Threats During a divorce, it's not uncommon for threats or intimidation tactics to be used. Remember that you are in control of your life and your future, as well as your reactions. Your spouse no longer gets to make decisions for you, such as when you’ll move out and where you will live. You are fully in charge of your future and key decisions such as going back to work, how you’ll raise your children, and how you’ll spend money. If you feel as if your former spouse is trying to control you, seek advice from professionals, consult with supportive friends and family, and build a clear plan for your future. Do not let your spouse's threats or desire to control you dictate your actions. Avoid Making Too Many Changes at Once A divorce is already a significant life change. Adding more stressors, such as starting a new job, moving far from your support network, or embarking on a drastic diet, can be overwhelming. Take your time to reflect, heal, and rebuild your life with intention. Implement changes gradually, so you can adapt at your own pace without adding unnecessary stress to an already challenging situation. Divorce is never easy, and managing your emotions during this time is crucial to making sound financial decisions. By being self-aware, seeking support from professionals, and taking steps to protect your emotional well-being, you can navigate the divorce process with greater resilience and ensure that your financial future remains secure. You have the power to shape your own destiny, and with the right support, you can emerge from divorce stronger and ready to embrace a new chapter in your life. At A.M. Financial, we support important aspects of your divorce by working with you to model new budgets, make decisions around maintenance, and wrap up other financial aspects of your settlement. Contact us for a free consultation to learn more about our services.

Counseling

Managing the 'Money Crazies' in Divorce: Navigating Emotional Turbulence

Part 1: What is Discernment Counseling and is it Right for Me?