Resilience in the Face of Divorce
Divorce is a difficult experience, both emotionally and mentally. But it is possible to find resilience in the face of it and even thrive through a divorce when you use mediation. Learning how to cope with the challenges divorce brings can help you to build your mental health and strength. Let’s explore the ways you can build resilience during this difficult period, and how to start thriving through divorce.
Reinvent Yourself
Going through a divorce can feel like the end of the world, but it doesn’t have to be. One way to thrive through this challenging time is to focus on reinventing yourself. This can include exploring new hobbies, finding new ways to connect with friends and family, or even changing your career path.
Not only does reinventing yourself give you a sense of control during an uncertain time, but it can also have a positive impact on your mental health. It’s easy to get stuck in negative thought patterns and feel like a victim of your circumstances, but actively taking steps toward self-improvement can help shift your mindset.
Making big changes can feel overwhelming, so focus on setting achievable goals. For example, try signing up for a new workout class or cooking a new recipe every week. These small changes can add up over time and help you feel like you’re moving forward.
Control and Process Your Emotions
Divorce is a tough pill to swallow. It’s not just the separation from your partner that is painful; it’s also the dissolution of the family unit, the separation from your shared life, and the emotional fallout that often accompanies the end of a marriage. The loss of a relationship can leave you feeling alone, abandoned, angry, and devastated. However, it’s essential to recognize that it is possible to work through these emotions, and eventually move forward.
One way to begin the healing process is by learning how to control and process your emotions. This can be especially difficult during a divorce, as you may feel a wide range of emotions, some of which may be conflicting or overwhelming. But learning how to manage these feelings can be the first step towards healing and finding resilience.
Take small steps to control your emotions. This means acknowledging when you’re feeling overwhelmed or triggered, and taking a step back to process what’s going on. Rather than allowing your emotions to control you, try to be proactive in managing them. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help regulate your emotions.
Let Go of Your Past
Divorce is a life-changing event that can often be accompanied by a myriad of painful emotions and lingering thoughts about the past. It’s easy to get trapped in the cycle of blame and regret, but holding on to the past won’t serve you in any way. Letting go is essential for your mental and emotional well-being, and forgiveness is an important part of this process.
Forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself, and it doesn’t mean condoning the actions of your ex-spouse or pretending like nothing happened. It means accepting what has happened and choosing to move forward with a positive mindset. Forgiveness doesn’t happen overnight, and it can be a gradual process, but it’s important to start somewhere.
Begin by acknowledging your feelings, whatever they may be. It’s okay to feel angry, hurt, or resentful, but holding on to those emotions won’t help you heal. Acknowledge the emotions and try to process them through journaling, talking to a therapist or a trusted friend.
Begin the low-stress process with Scott F. Levin, Esq, at San Diego Divorce Mediation. You’ll have access to flexible options, including virtual meetings. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation and see the difference mediation can make. By choosing mediation, you can save time, money, and emotional distress, while maintaining control over the outcome of your divorce.