If you’re thinking about getting divorced, there are some essential steps to take ahead of time. Preparing for divorce shouldn’t be viewed as devious or calculating; it’s a proactive move that keeps your best interests in mind.
Benefits of Preparing for a Divorce
Many people are uncertain whether they should spend the time and energy to prepare for divorce. But, preparing for divorce can benefit you in several ways. When you prep for divorce and get all the necessary documents ready, you’re not only saving time before you get a divorce attorney involved, but you’re also saving money by not having to pay to have your attorney find the paperwork.
Going through a divorce is an emotional time. When you feel prepared, you can deal with your emotions better. Being prepared can also make you feel more confident in the divorce proceedings and the future. When people don’t feel prepared, they begin to get anxious and can have more difficulty dealing with the situation.
Tips for Preparing for a Divorce
If you’re not sure how to start preparing for a divorce, consider these tips:
Deal with Your Emotions.
It doesn’t matter whether you’ve initiated the divorce or your spouse did, going through a divorce is emotional. If you can get the help of a support group or therapist early in the process, you’ll be better equipped to deal with your divorce. This can help you avoid making emotion-driven decisions which may not be in your best interest.
Take Stock of Your Finances.
Divorce itself can be expensive as well as life after divorce. Know what your assets are as well as your debt; it will also make it easier to split up joint assets and bank accounts. As you take stock of your finances, determine what your monthly income will be as well as your expenses. Going from two incomes to one can be difficult. You need to know what you can afford so you can plan for the future.
Start Saving Money.
After you’ve taken stock of your finances, start saving money. You can use this money to pay for a divorce lawyer or to begin your newly single life. Either way, it’s good to have a cushion before you begin your divorce proceedings. You’ll realize how much that money will come in handy during and after your divorce.
Don’t Make Any Large Purchases.
If you’re preparing for a divorce, this may not be the time to buy a luxury car or that diamond ring you’ve always wanted. You should be thinking about how you could use your money after the divorce, not before.
Set Realistic Goals.
Think about your post-divorce life and what goals you want to achieve. Setting these goals now can help you navigate through your divorce better so that you get the things you want.
Keep Your Kids in Mind.
If you have children, think about how it’s going to affect your kids. Many kids take divorce hard. Always keep your children’s best interests in mind and talk to them about their feelings. Support them emotionally and seek the help of a therapist if needed. Some kids can express their feelings to a stranger better than to a parent.
Be Ready to Take Responsibility.
While a divorce attorney may be taking care of your divorce proceedings in court, you need to be ready to take responsibility and take an active role. Be clear about what you want and be present at all meetings. This will not only move the process along but will give you a better chance of getting what you want and need from the divorce.
Stay Safe on Social Media.
Resist the urge to spill your life on social media and bad mouth your soon-to-be-ex. Although you may delete a post, there’s a good chance it can still be found. Things that you say or write on social media can come back to haunt you and can impact your divorce and even your settlement.
These tips can help you become better prepared for divorce so that during the proceedings, you can make sound decisions that will be in your best interest.
