How to Return to Work After My Divorce?

Divorce is a deeply personal matter. Whether you and your spouse were married a short time, or you have built a life and family together, ending a marriage is one of the most personally challenging times in your life. Going back to work after such a life-changing experience is never easy, especially if you have not been working for a long time. After a divorce, you might want to go back to work, even if you do not need to, so your mind can focus on something else. We understand and we are here to help you achieve your goals.

Returning to Work After a Break

For many people, divorce can be an all-consuming process, especially as it nears the final stages of the legal process, and this can mean taking time off work. Some people even take a leave of absence from work, giving them a few weeks to a couple of months to deal with the final divorce proceedings and spend some time taking care of themselves after it is all over. Seeing colleagues and acquaintances again can be tough. They will probably have questions about the divorce, and even if they are asking out of concern and kindness, it is still not easy to handle. If you do not want to discuss your personal life at work, you are not required to do so. But be prepared to field some of these questions, at least in the initial days back to work.

Returning to Work After Years of Absence

In some ways, returning to work after years of absence can be easier than going back to your old job. Reentering the workforce means you probably work for a new company and do not know any of your colleagues. Which also means they do not know you just went through a divorce and will not pepper you with questions.

Whether you were out of the workforce for just a couple of years or for decades, going back can be a shock to the system. You might feel out of practice, left out of inside jokes, or like you do not belong. It is important to remember that you were hired for a reason and you can succeed.

Pros and Cons of Going Back to Work

The biggest benefit of returning to work is that you have financial freedom. You are not beholden to your former spouse, and you have the opportunity to provide for your needs and use your income exactly as you see fit.

Going back to work can help with your confidence. After a divorce, many spouses find themselves depressed and wondering what life has to offer. Financial independence allows you the chance to do what you want, when you want, with whomever you want.

You may love your work. Getting back into work that sparks joy can help you get out of a rut. You can make new contacts, which could lead to new job opportunities. Growing your professional network also grows your social network so you can fill your life with fun and exciting people, separate and distinct from your former spouse and any mutual friends you may have.

If you were out of work for a long time, you may not be good at budgeting. This can be a stark adjustment for people after a divorce. Getting back to work means not blowing your paycheck by Saturday morning so, if you fall into this category, you may want to consider financial management classes. This will help you stay financially independent.

One of the biggest challenges recently divorced people face when going back to work is change. Especially if you have been out of the workforce for many years, new technology is bound to have entered the office, and you may feel uncomfortable with learning new tools.

If you have children, especially young children, going back to work could disrupt your routines. One of the most important things after divorce is to keep the children’s routine constant. Going back to work could upend that and you may need to find assistance for your children.

No matter what, with careful planning and clear goals, you can go back to work after a divorce. It just requires you to be honest with yourself about what you need and give yourself enough time to heal before you try to jump back into the workforce.

Tips for Returning to Work

• Do what you love. Do not just take any job to get you out of the house. That can make you even more miserable. Consider your skills, experience, and what brings you joy. Chase that in a job and you will feel much more satisfaction.
• Lean on your network. If you have not been out of work too long, lean on your professional network. Even if you have been out of work for many years, lean on your friends. Beyond moral support, your friends may have professional connections who can help you land a job that you are qualified for and, more importantly, passionate about.
• Write your goals down. Putting your goals and desires onto paper makes them real. Not only will you gain a better understanding of what you truly want, but you will be able to better see a path of how you get there.

The Marlton Divorce Lawyers at Goldstein & Mignogna, P.A., Give You Compassionate Representation

Whether you are still thinking about divorce or you are ready to file, knowing what happens after all the legal matters are dealt with can seem overwhelming. We can help you by giving you compassionate representation, understanding exactly what it is you are going through. To find out your legal options, speak with our experienced Marlton divorce lawyers at Goldstein & Mignogna, P.A. Call us today at 856-890-9400 or contact us online to schedule your consultation with our experienced team. With offices in Marlton, New Jersey, we proudly serve our neighbors in South Jersey, Marlton, Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and statewide.