If your marriage is at an end, you have a lot on your plate, emotionally and practically speaking. One of the most important steps you can take when it comes to the idea of navigating your divorce successfully involves setting clear priorities.
Making this effort can help you to organize the myriad of “stuff” on your plate. Having a clear sense of what matters most to you can also help to guide your decisions, minimize conflict and better ensure that the outcome aligns with your long-term goals.
Focus on the well-being of your children (if applicable)
If you have children, their well-being is undoubtedly already a top priority. When moving forward, keep concerns about what will provide the most stability and support for your children during and after the divorce at the forefront of your mind. This might mean, for example, prioritizing a custody arrangement that allows them to maintain their routine, stay in the same school and/or continue relationships with both parents. Being clear about your parenting priorities can help you make decisions that protect your children’s best interests and minimize disruption in their lives.
Safeguard your financial security
Divorce results in significant financial implications, so it’s important to prioritize your financial security. This involves more than just dividing assets—it’s about working to ensure that you have the resources to maintain your lifestyle and meet your future needs. You’ll want to craft a plan of action that takes your short-term and long-term future into account. Making decisions that are primarily emotional in nature is an approach that is unlikely to serve you well.
Decide what you’re willing to compromise on
Divorce is a negotiation process, and not every issue is a top priority. To avoid unnecessary conflict and reach a settlement more quickly, it can be helpful to identify the issues where you’re willing to compromise. Being clear about your priorities will make it easier to negotiate and can help you avoid getting bogged down in disputes over less important matters.
Divorce does not just concern legal and financial matters. It is a deeply emotional process. Prioritizing your emotional well-being can help you navigate the process more smoothly. By working to manage your stress and emotions, you’ll place yourself in the strongest possible position to both secure a favorable outcome and move forward in healthy ways.