Our last few posts have focused on planning for the holidays, whether it is a newly divorced person getting ready for their first season as a divorcee, or grandparents who are in awkward positions trying to get precious time with their grandchildren after their child has divorced. It was not intentional, but we have neglected the plight of readers who may not be divorced yet and may be contemplating what they must do to endure one more holiday season.
We find this topic very important given that a number of divorces are initiated in January of each year. In fact, more divorces are started in the month after New Year’s than any other time of the year. Moreover, many troubled spouses try to make the holidays decent and amicable so that they do not compromise family gatherings or make children uncomfortable at a time where lifelong memories are made.
However, putting on a good face and avoiding arguments while holding onto inner convictions about divorce can be stressful. Because of this, potential divorcees should focus on the following so that they can make it though the holiday season:
Gather all financial paperwork – This includes bank statements, insurance information, and paystubs. This will help in painting an accurate financial picture once you start your divorce.
Own the guilt – This means that your guilt should not compel you to make unusual promises or purchase additional presents to lessen the blow or “make up for” the impending divorce.
Get help –The stress of thinking about a divorce may be just as taxing as the experience itself; but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Source: HuffingtonPost.com, ”That special time of year: Holidays mean waiting to divorce,” Morghan Leia Richardson