Impact of Divorce On Stay-At-Home Parents

Divorce is complicated and highly emotional for everyone. For stay-at-home parents, though, it can be even harder to adjust to a new normal. After spending years creating and maintaining a home for your family - it can be scary to think of that changing.

That fear should not hold you back. There are ways for stay-at-home parents to move forward after divorce.

Finances

The new financial situation can be one of the biggest stressors for stay-at-home parents. One of the first steps you should take is to organize your finances, know the value of your marital assets, and start a budget.

You may consider requesting alimony payments. This can help provide you with some financial assistance as you figure out your next steps.

Many factors will influence the amount of alimony you may be granted, such as:

• Your income

• Your earning capacity

• The length of the marriage

• Any lost opportunities due to the marriage

For the last bullet, being a homemaker may help you to secure more alimony because you gave up working and making your own money in order to take care of your family.

You may also consider your options for continuing your education or finding a career. This will help you feel more financially secure in your new life.

Finding A New Routine

When you’re used to having your whole family around all the time, the switch to being by yourself can feel lonely at times.

Combat this by taking time to invest in new hobbies. Sign up for a class, spend more time with friends, or try something you’ve always wanted to do but never got around to.

When your kids are home, make the most of your time with them. Enjoy the little things about everyday life, plan fun day-trips, and continue to make memories.

Learning to Co-Parent

Switching from being married to being co-parents is a difficult adjustment. As you learn how to communicate, remember that you share a common goal - wanting what is best for your children.

Here are some tips for a healthy co-parent relationship:

• Keep conversations focused on the kids.

• Don’t let emotions get the best of you.

• Phrase things as requests instead of demands.

• Stay calm.

It’s not always easy to adjust, and divorce can come with drastic lifestyle changes. We suggest relying on a family law attorney with experience in complicated divorces to assist you with moving forward during your divorce.

Florida Family Law Attorney

At Autumn Beck Blackledge PLLC, we know adjusting to life after divorce is difficult. You may even feel like it is impossible. But you can do this! If you are planning on filing for divorce, give us a call today at (850) 404-7263 to schedule a consultation.