Getting Through Divorce One Day at a Time

Having children can be one of life's greatest blessings for many people, but it's not in the cards for everyone. With all the media coverage of divorces that involve kids, you may feel like a lone wolf if you are involved in a child-free divorce. A lot of people may assume that a divorce that isn't complicated by co-parenting responsibilities may be straightforward, but there are a lot of things to consider.

Talk to your divorce lawyer about any questions you have or legal support you may need during this time, and consider the following questions as you move through your divorce. You may find that getting a divorce is one of the best decisions you've made, and that it doesn't mean you can't still be an active part of your ex's life.

Consider This! What Are Your Priorities in the Divorce?

It's important to know what you want to fight for at the start of your divorce. The things that motivate people to file for divorce are varied, and only you know what you most want and need from the divorce. If your own top priorities are not immediately clear to you, try making a list of what's most important to you as you change your life, then organize things in order of importance.

Once you have established your priorities, it's important to honor them to build your life in a way that best serves you as you go through the divorce. If you need to find a way to become financially secure, don't agree to a settlement that offers less than you deserve. If you want the divorce to go through quickly, keeping that in mind as a priority will impact your choices as well.

Consider This! Do You Want Your Ex in Your Life?

Divorcing couples who have children are pretty much tied together for life. They can't stop co-parenting with each other, and even after their kids are all grown up, they are likely to share grandchildren and other special things in their adult children's lives. However, child-free couples can choose whether they want to stay in each other's lives at all.

You can opt to walk out of your ex's life for good once the divorce and division of assets are settled. You may decide to simply keep a connection on social media, or you may choose to stay close friends. It depends on the couple, the circumstances of the divorce, and how the post-divorce relationship changes over time. When you both start to move on and get serious about the next relationship in your lives, that stage may be painful, but it is up to you to decide what's best for your life.

Finally, keep in mind that there are good and bad things about divorcing without children. When you come across a question or consideration that is hard to work out on your own, your divorce lawyer can provide insights and advice to ensure you are protecting your best interests. Put yourself and your needs first during the divorce, and you will feel empowered for whatever post-divorce decisions you make.