Valentine's Day Tips for Newly Divorced

People often think that once a divorce is finalized that the hardest part is over, but many newly single individuals find it difficult to face certain holidays. For example, Valentine’s Day can be especially tough for those who are recently divorced. However, being alone on Valentine’s Day does not have to be disheartening. There are many ways you can celebrate the holiday. Here are some ways you can survive Valentine’s Day.

Plan Activities Ahead of Time

It is a good idea to plan ahead of time to have something to do on Valentine’s Day. That way, you will not scrambling for something to do at the last minute. Watching a romantic movie or staying in bed all day will only make you reminisce or cause you to feel upset. Instead, why not gather with friends?

Distract Yourself

It is important to distract yourself if you are feeling upset about Valentine’s Day. One way to distract yourself is to focus on your health. Exercising can be energizing and/or relaxing, and related activities should also be planned for in advance. Suggestions include going for a hike or taking a long walk in a new place.

If you do not want to do anything physical, there are other ways to celebrate. Feeling lazy? Call up a friend and binge-watch a show with plenty of snacks and drinks.

Take Time Off

If you want to take it to another level, call out sick or take some vacations days and arrange to get away with friends. Getting out of your house and into a new environment can be good for your wellbeing. It does not have to be that expensive, either. Look for spots not too far away so that you can do a day trip.

Spend Time With Your Children

Children love celebrating Valentine’s Day as well. To show them some love on the holiday, you can make Valentine’s Day a family event and skip the romance. If you have custody of them on this day, you could spend time cooking, baking, and enjoying a leisurely meal together. You can buy them a few inexpensive gifts or make some yourself. They might appreciate small and thoughtful gifts, like chocolates, personalized mugs, heart-themed jewelry, and movie tickets.

If you have teenagers, they may want to spend the day with friends rather than you. You might be able to persuade them to go on a day trip with you instead, though. Suggestions for this include a museum, skiing, or a day of shopping. If they have school, these options are more limited, but you might be able to do a family dinner or something small.

Ask for their input, but if it seems as though they really do not want to spend the day with you, do not force them. That will only make them upset.

Socialize With Friends

A night out with a group of friends is another great way for single people to celebrate Valentine’s Day, and you might even be able to find a local event near your home. If you are not ready for that type of socialization yet, consider a unique solo activity that you have never tried before. This might be a yoga class, a cooking lesson, or something else that is outside the box.

Remove the Romance

Having items in your house that remind you of your ex-spouse can slow down your transition into being single, and Valentine’s Day could be a perfect time to dispose of them. The physical action of gathering them together and taking them to the dump can even be therapeutic. To take it a step further, you could even burn them. This can safely be done in a fireplace or in your yard. This can destroy painful memories and warm you up at the same time.

What Should You Avoid Doing on Valentine’s Day?

Newly single people should avoid going on social media on Valentine’s Day if they are still feeling upset about a recent divorce. If you are still friends with your ex-spouse, you may see posts of them having a good time, possibly with another partner. You will most likely see posts from other people enjoying the day, full of romance and smiles.

Instead of comparing yourself to other people and thinking about the past, make an effort to focus on the future. Do not wallow, and you should avoid trying to find out what your ex-partner is up to on Valentine’s Day. All of these are unhealthy ways to cope and will only make you feel worse.

Stay off of social media on Valentine’s Day, find activities to hold your interest, and show your children, family members, and friends some love instead.

Marlton Divorce Lawyers at Goldstein & Mignogna, P.A. Can Help You Navigate Your Divorce

Valentine’s Day does not need to be full of negative emotions, you can make the holiday enjoyable. If you need legal assistance with your divorce, reach out to one of our Marlton divorce lawyers at Goldstein & Mignogna, P.A. We can help you every step of the way. Call us at 856-890-9400 or complete our online form to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Marlton, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Burlington County, Camden County, and Gloucester County.