There’s no easy way of saying this, but the truth is: divorce is HARD. Because let’s be real… going through a divorce can feel like you’re being hit by a truck.
It’s a time when you need all the support you can get, and that’s where your squad comes in.
It’s not just about splitting up your stuff and going your separate ways… it’s about navigating a whole mess of legal jargon, emotional rollercoasters, and logistical nightmares that can leave you feeling like you’re losing your mind. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone!
Building a strong support system is like having your team of superheroes ready to swoop in and save the day. We at Purposeful Wealth Advisors believe that having a trusted squad by your side can make a world of difference.
In this post, we’ll break down the different types of support you need and who you should consider recruiting for your Divorce Support Squad. Trust me, with the right people in your corner, you can face anything a divorce throws your way.
Emotional Support
Friends and Family
When it comes to emotional support, your friends and family are the MVPs. They’re the ones who will listen to you vent, bring you ice cream when you’re feeling down, and remind you that you’re a total catch (even if your ex couldn’t see it).
Although there is an interesting study on how friends and family can have varying opinions on repartnering, your friends and family are still going to be the first line of defense.
Tips:
⦁ Pick the people who lift you and make you feel like a million bucks, not the ones who drag you down.
⦁ Watch out for those mutual friends who might feel torn between you and your ex. Stick with the ride-or-dies who have your back no matter what.
Mental Health Professionals
But sometimes, you need more than a pint of Ben C Jerry’s and a shoulder to cry on. That’s where mental health pros come in. These are the experts who can help you make sense of the chaos and give you the tools to keep your head on straight.
Types:
⦁ Psychologists (a.k.a. the feelings whisperers)
⦁ Psychiatrists (the ones with the prescription pads)
⦁ Licensed Therapists or Counselors (the ones who nod and say “tell me more”)
Tips:
⦁ Ask around for recommendations or look for therapists who specialize in divorce. They’ve seen it all and know how to help you navigate this crazy ride.
Legal Support
Divorce Attorney
Your divorce attorney is like your legal knight in shining armor. They’re the ones who will fight for your rights, make sure you get what you deserve, and translate all that legal language into plain English.
Tips:
⦁ Find someone who specializes in family law and has a track record of success.
⦁ Make sure you feel comfortable with them and trust them to have your back. You don’t want a pushover or a shark… you want a pit bull with a heart of gold.
Mediator
If you and your ex are on relatively good terms and want to keep things civil, a mediator can be a total game-changer. They’ll help you navigate those tricky negotiations and find a compromise that works for everyone.
Tips:
⦁ Mediation is a great option if you’re hoping to avoid a nasty court battle.
⦁ Just make sure you find a certified mediator who knows their stuff when it comes to divorce.
Financial Support
Certified Financial Analyst
Divorce can do a number on your finances, but a good Certified Divorce Financial Analyst can help you pick up the pieces and build a solid plan for your future. At Purposeful Wealth Advisors, we can help you make that transition. We’ll make sure that the divorce doesn’t beat your finances to a pulp.
Tips:
⦁ Look for a team who’s helped a lot of people navigate the financial fallout of divorce.
Accountant
An accountant is like a financial detective who can help you unravel the tax implications of your divorce and make sure you’re not leaving any money on the table.
Tips:
⦁ Find an accountant who knows the ins and outs of divorce taxation.
⦁ Ask them about their experience with cases like yours. You want someone who’s been around the block a few times.
Personal Support
Personal Coach or Life Coach
A personal coach or life coach is like a cheerleader, therapist, and strategist all rolled into one. They’ll help you figure out what you want your post-divorce life to look like and give you the tools and motivation to make it happen.
Tips:
⦁ Look for a coach who specializes in helping people navigate big life transitions like divorce.
⦁ Make sure their approach aligns with your personality and goals. You don’t want a coach who’s all “do this and do that” if you’re more of a “slow and steady” kind of person.
Support Groups
Joining a support group can be like finding your tribe. These are people who get it, who’ve been where you are, and who can offer the kind of been-there-done-that wisdom that only comes from experience.
Tips:
⦁ Check out local divorce support groups or hop online to find a virtual community.
⦁ If you can, find a group that’s led by a mental health professional. They can keep things on track and make sure everyone plays nice.
Work With Us
Building your Divorce Support Squad is like assembling your team of Avengers. Each member brings their unique skills and superpowers to the table, and together, they can help you overcome anything this divorce throws your way.
At Purposeful Wealth Advisors, we’re proud to be a part of that team. We specialize in divorce-related financial planning and are here to help you navigate the money stuff with confidence and clarity. If you’re looking for a trusted financial advisor to add to your squad, we’d love to chat. Head over to our website and schedule a complimentary consultation – we’re here to help you build a bright financial future, no matter what challenges life throws your way.
So, take a deep breath, grab a pen and paper, and start brainstorming who you want on your team. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, lean on your squad, and remember that you’re not alone in this. You’ve got this, and with your squad by your side, you can come out the other side stronger, wiser, and ready to take on the world.
Divorce may be tough, but you’re tougher. Let’s do this thing!
Note: You can check out our empowered divorce financial planning process to understand what we bring to the table!
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.
