Being a stay-at-home mom in New Hampshire is rarely easy, but it’s even more challenging when you’re going through a divorce. Here is a guide you can use to prepare yourself.
Go through your emotions
It’s normal to go through myriad emotions whether the divorce was your idea or your spouse’s. Allow yourself the chance to experience any emotions that come up so that you can move forward.
Assess your financial situation
It’s important to assess your financial situation in preparation for your divorce. As a stay-at-home mom, you may or may not be in charge of managing the household finances. You should go through all sources of income, bank accounts, credit cards, retirement accounts, regular monthly bills, loans, debts and anything else. You will want to determine which accounts you have access to.
Start looking for a job
Some stay-at-home moms have limited education and little job experience. Regardless of whether you fit into those categories, now is the time to start job hunting. Even if you only find something part-time or low-paying, it can give you an advantage whether you need alimony and child support or not.
If you need a refresher on your education, you can take classes at a local school or online. There are many options available that can give you the tools you need to find a good job.
Consider how to get the divorce
You should wisely choose how to get the divorce. If you and your spouse are willing to work together to settle things, you can opt for divorce mediation or collaborative divorce to end your marriage. Both options allow you to negotiate on matters most pressing to you and settle things together in a way that works well for you both. It’s also beneficial for your children to see their parents being civil or even amicable in spite of the change in the family dynamics.
While it won’t be easy, you’ll be in a better position to be a newly single mom when you take these steps. Your goal should be to come out of the divorce as financially secure as possible.
