Have you experienced that dark feeling in your gut with your divorce? I call it divorce fear.
Fear is a nasty four-letter word that wreaks havoc in the hearts of many a divorcing or divorced woman. It comes with questions like:
It’s no secret that the process of separating from a partner and starting a new life alone can be daunting, overwhelming, and scary. The fear of the unknown can create an endless list of worries, doubts, and concerns that can make it difficult to move forward with confidence and clarity.
But the good news is that there are ways to overcome divorce fear, and to approach this challenging time with strength, resilience, and hope. I call these the “Enemies of Divorce Fear.”
One of the most effective ways to combat divorce fear is to gather accurate information about the divorce process, your financial situation and your legal rights and responsibilities. This can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the unknown.
Financial fears are a common concern during divorce, and not knowing where you stand can be a source of great anxiety. However, by gathering critical financial documents and information, such as tax returns, bank statements, and more, you can get a clear picture of your financial situation and take steps to protect your financial future. You can do this yourself, or work with a Divorce Coach or Certified Divorce Financial Analyst to help you understand where you stand.
Taking action is another powerful antidote to divorce fear. This might mean finding a support group, reading a book, or listening to a podcast on divorce to learn more about the process and how to navigate it successfully.
It can also be unrelated things like doing artwork, cleaning a closet, or taking a walk. Helping other people can also be a powerful way to combat divorce fear, as it can give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment and remind you that you’re not alone.
Faith in something bigger than oneself can provide comfort and hope during difficult times. This might mean turning to a religious belief or a sense of purpose that gives you strength and resilience. It doesn’t mean just sitting back and waiting for good things to happen, but rather trusting in a plan or force or whatever you believe in and doing the footwork and overall work in the process.
For example, if you fear that you won’t find a loving relationship, the footwork might be to do the growth work on yourself, such as becoming the kind of person someone would want to be in a relationship with, or working to develop a robust life you truly enjoy living on your own.
Finally, finding ways to cultivate peace of mind can help you manage your anxiety and reduce the impact of divorce fear on your life. This might include self-care practices like yoga, tapping, journaling, practicing gratitude, or spending time in nature. Being at the ocean or mountains or wherever your special place is can also be incredibly soothing.
Even if you can’t physically be there, visualizing yourself being there can be very calming and relaxing. These practices can help you recharge your batteries, find relaxation and peacefulness, and give you the energy you need to face life’s challenges.
In conclusion, divorce fear is a natural and understandable response to a difficult and challenging life transition. It comes with one of the most painful and stressful times in your life. Don’t sit in this fear because it can have damaging consequences to your emotions and your health.
However, there are powerful antidotes to this fear, including gathering accurate information, taking action, having faith in something bigger than oneself, and cultivating peace of mind. By using these tools, you can approach divorce with confidence, strength, and resilience, and create a new life that is fulfilling, joyful, and abundant.
Do you want to rid yourself of divorce fear? Do you want to decrease your divorce anxiety by reducing your fear? Are you ready for a new way of dealing with your divorce?
Tags Divorce After 60
I am divorced and the fear is worse than the reality of it. I’ve had so many wonderful relationships and experiences since my divorce that I never would have had if I had stayed married. I went through almost 4 years of terrible stress while separated but, in the end, it was worth it. It is far better to be alone than to be with someone and feel alone. Being alone doesn’t have to feel lonely.
Thank you for this advise. The comment about ” waiting for something good to happen”, that hit home. While I’m not divorced but widowed, much of what you said applies. I hit a wall after my husband died and it’s been rough. Will look for future articles. Thank you.