Once the decision to divorce is taken, it’s important to focus on the future. This can be difficult, as you might spend a lot of time thinking about the past, especially if your spouse surprised you with a divorce request.
Nevertheless, the only part of your life you can change is the one that is still to happen. The following can help you make it a positive one.
1. Prepare financially
Being financially prepared for a divorce means having money to see you through the process. Costs will include legal fees and potentially separate accommodation. If you do not have sufficient money in a personal account, you’ll want to try and make sure you retain access to the joint account.
You might also want to start separarating your finances, closing joint credit cards and so forth to avoid further debt complicating matters. You need to take care with this, as anything that might be seen as an attempt to cut your spouse off from funds, or hide money from them could land you in legal problems. Most accounts require both parties to sign to close them.
2. Prepare emotionally
Divorce is unlikely to be easy, so let a few close friends and family members know that you might need their support during this time. That could range from a couch to crash on to a shoulder to cry on, or just someone who can help you have fun and forget about the divorce for a while. Therapy is also an option that can help many.
3. Educate yourself
Walking into a divorce with little idea of how the process works and little idea of your rights and obligations is asking for trouble. You leave yourself open to being taken advantage of by your spouse. Looking for legal guidance is one of the best ways to get yourself up to speed fast with what you need to know.