From an early age, many women were trained to be nice. Many of our clients were very nice during their marriage, and sometimes to a fault which allowed them to not be financially empowered during the divorce.
There is a prevalent quote that says, “If you are going to be anything, be nice”. In most situations, I agree with this. But when it comes to your divorce, there are no do-overs. This is the time to make sure you are empowered to make the best decisions for you and your family.
I find that many of my clients feel guilty about asking their spouse for more information during the divorce. But you need to know all the facts to make good decisions in your divorce.
I find that some of my clients feel guilty if they were the spouse to initiate the divorce but in all of these scenarios, I also see that these women tried to do all they could do to save their marriage, but it just wasn’t possible.
I find that many of my clients feel guilty about hiring a strong attorney because they want their spouse to be treated nicely during the divorce.
In all these situations I want to mention, there are ways for you and your attorney to be both nice and strong at the same time to make sure you are advocating for your and your family’s needs.
Being nice and strong in a divorce may seem like a paradox, but it is possible to achieve both. Here are some tips on how to navigate the divorce process with grace and dignity, while also standing up for yourself and protecting your interests.
- Focus on Communication
Communication is key in any relationship, including a divorce. Whether you’re dealing with your ex-spouse, lawyers, or the court system, it’s essential to maintain open and honest communication. This means being respectful, but also being clear about your needs and boundaries.
Try to keep your emotions in check during conversations and focus on the facts. Listen carefully to what the other person is saying and respond in a thoughtful and measured way. If you’re struggling to communicate effectively, consider working with a mediator or therapist to help you both express your thoughts and feelings in a constructive way.
- Don’t Take Things Personally
It’s natural to feel hurt or offended when your ex-spouse says or does something that upsets you. However, it’s important to remember that their behavior is not a reflection of you. Try not to take things personally and instead focus on the bigger picture. You can’t control their actions, but you can control your own response.
- Practice Self-care
Going through a divorce is emotionally and physically exhausting. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care during this time. Make sure to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet. Take breaks when you need them and find activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, yoga, or spending time with friends.
- Seek Support
Going through a divorce can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to friends and family members for support and consider joining a divorce support group. Talking to people who have been through a similar experience can be incredibly helpful and reassuring.
- Be Willing to Compromise
While it’s important to stand up for yourself and protect your interests, it’s also essential to be willing to compromise. Remember that divorce is a two-way street, and you’ll likely have to make some concessions along the way. Be open to negotiating and finding a middle ground that works for both parties.
- Ask Questions
Going through a divorce can be overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally draining. It’s understandable to feel unsure and hesitant about the process, but it’s important to remember that asking questions is a vital part of understanding what’s happening and making informed decisions. Having the confidence to ask questions during a divorce can help you gain clarity, reduce anxiety, and ultimately achieve a better outcome. Don’t be afraid to speak up and seek clarification from your lawyer, mediator, or other professionals involved in the process. By asking questions and seeking answers, you can empower yourself to make informed decisions that will shape your future.
- Advocate for Yourself
Divorce can be an emotionally fraught process, but it’s important to remember that you have the right to advocate for what you need. This means standing up for your rights, expressing your needs and wants, and being an active participant in the process. Having the confidence to advocate for yourself can help ensure that your interests are represented and that you achieve the best possible outcome. Don’t be afraid to voice your opinions and needs, and to seek support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals. Remember that you have a right to be heard and to fight for what matters most to you. With the right mindset and a willingness to stand up for yourself, you can navigate the divorce process with confidence and achieve a positive outcome.
- Managing Your Emotions to Get a Successful Outcome
Divorce can be a highly emotional process, and it’s important to be aware of your emotions when communicating with your spouse or others involved in the process. Negative emotions like anger, resentment, and fear can cloud your judgment and make it difficult to communicate effectively. Take the time to identify and understand your emotions before engaging in any conversations or negotiations. If you’re feeling particularly upset or overwhelmed, it may be helpful to take a break and regroup before continuing. When communicating, try to remain calm and focused, and avoid blaming or attacking the other person. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and needs in a non-confrontational way. By being aware of your emotions and communicating in a constructive way, you can avoid unnecessary conflict and achieve a more positive outcome.
If you felt you were in a marriage where you didn’t have a voice and you didn’t advocate for yourself, you have an opportunity to model this behavior for your kids during your divorce where they can see you nicely advocating for yourself. This can make a tremendous difference in how they interact in relationships going forward.
In conclusion, being nice and strong in a divorce is all about finding a balance. It’s possible to assert your needs and boundaries while also maintaining respectful and constructive communication. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and being willing to compromise, you can navigate the divorce process with grace and dignity. Remember to be kind to yourself and take things one day at a time – healing takes time, but you’ll get there eventually.
Opinions expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily those of Raymond James. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.
