Finding Thankfulness Even in Divorce

The winter holiday season is officially upon us, and it can be hard to feel thankful when you're going through something as difficult as a divorce.

You never wanted this. You didn't get married and have a family with a plan to one day go through this heart-wrenching experience. Passing the kids back and forth on the holidays instead of being together as one big happy family was NOT what you wanted.

But sometimes life has other plans for us. And one thing we can do to help get through this season is focus on the things we're grateful for. 

One silly idea that may help you is a Thankfulness Jar. Find things that you are thankful for, and write them on a small piece of paper. Every time you think of something to be thankful for, write it down and put the paper in your jar. If you have kids, get them involved too. 

I promise that being intentional about your thoughts can make a difference to help you see the areas of your life that are positive.  Set a goal of filling up the jar by the new year. Looking around your life and finding even small things to be thankful for can make all the difference. 

How else can you get through this holiday season? Here are a few ideas for you:

Starting Something New

Now is a great time to start new traditions. If there is something you had always wanted to try for yourself or with your children, here is your opportunity to create new memories that are lasting. If you are also keeping an eye on your budget and struggling with that, there are low or no-cost options to still keep the magic of the holidays and find things to be thankful for today. 

Become a Local Tourist 

It can be easy to forget what local attractions are around us when we have lived in a place for a long time, but it can be a low-cost and fun alternative to play a local tourist with holiday traditions and celebrations near you. Simple traditions to look at lights or go to a Christmas tree lighting can help you have a simple moment of joy in the midst of this difficult season. 

Finding Community

Consider a holiday with friends. I guarantee you those in your life who love you want to help you through this time. Even if you are not near family during the holidays, which may feel like an added burden this year, you can celebrate these times with friends. Building community and fostering the community you have during you divorce is key to surviving this time.

Listen to the Podcast

Have you had a chance to listen to my podcast? While I can't sit in your kitchen with you over a cup of tea and talk through all of your options, I do talk with many experts on divorce, money, relationships, co-parenting, and everything in between related to divorce. Hearing from women who have gone through divorce and made the most of this time can be a huge advantage when you don't know how you will make it.

Thank you for being a part of this community. We are here to support you during the holiday season and all year long.