Thanksgiving is a time to be, well, thankful – for family, health, friends, and love. What if you’re newly divorced? What if your family and relationships are fractured where they once were whole? Holidays can be challenging to navigate if you’re in the middle of or have just finalized your Michigan divorce but it is possible to get through this notable Thursday relatively unscathed.
1. Remember that it’s just one day.
Thanksgiving is the unofficial kick-off for the holiday season, but remember that you only have to get through 24 hours without your kids or with people whose company you may not enjoy all that much. Keep the focus on this one day and try not to lament the difficulties ahead, like who will be where for Christmas and how different this holiday will be if you’re living in a different place or are now faced with establishing new traditions. Being present is half the battle – divorce is often a situation of one day at a time. Thanksgiving is just one more of those days.
2. Take care of yourself.
You may be tempted to overindulge on Thanksgiving if you’re feeling forced to spend the day differently than you always have. You may drink too much or eat too much or just allow yourself a vice that you may have long retired. Not taking care of yourself physically will only make you feel worse emotionally. If staying in bed all day is your idea of self-care, then have at it. But maybe getting up and doing your usual routine is the best way to stay on track and manage the holiday.
3. Don’t ignore it.
You might think the way to survive Thanksgiving is to ignore the holiday completely. This plan, however, could backfire spectacularly. You can be reminded of the difference of the day in numerous ways, some that may be unexpected until they smack you in the face. Quieter streets will remind you that people are tucked in their homes with family. Closed businesses will alert you of the same. Even television programming will drive home the point that this day is a holiday – and you’re not spending it the way you always have.
4. Make plans.
Divorce can be a lonely time. Chances are, however, if you look closely, you’ll see that friends and family are right there waiting to support you in your time of need. If you can’t be with your children because of interim orders or your usual Thanksgiving plans have been altered by your divorce, be proactive. Accept invitations that you might have otherwise turned down. Make a reservation for one at a restaurant if you must or go to a movie marathon. But give yourself something to look forward to so you’re not just looking forward to a day alone.
5. Get support.
Knowing that you have close confidantes in your corner helps you manage your divorce journey. Knowing too that you have an accomplished, experienced Michigan divorce lawyer on your side is a big deal too. Contact Michigan Divorce Help PLLC in Mount Clemens to schedule your free initial consultation.