Christmas can be a wonderful time, but if you are experiencing difficulties, it can also be a very upsetting time. If you are going through a divorce over Christmas, you may be worried about how it will work, especially if you have children. But the good news is that you can still experience some seasonal cheer even if your circumstances are complicated.
Plan your finances
Divorce means the splitting of assets, which may mean that you don’t have as much money as you are used to. If you have recently had to move home as well, then things can be extra tight.
Avoid the temptation to splurge over Christmas. Adult family members should understand if their gifts aren’t as exuberant as previous years and you don’t have to buy your children the latest expensive toys. Take a look at your social schedule too and perhaps bail out of a couple of parties if you need to. It won’t be a fun Christmas if you are worrying about debt.
Set the kids’ schedule
Make sure you know in advance who is seeing the kids when and where. It may not be ideal, but if you know then you can make plans and make sure your time with them is special. Put in some time for them to see extended family members too. Don’t feel obliged to struggle through Christmas day with your ex for the sake of the children. It is likely to upset them more if there is tension in the air.
Tell distant relatives in advance
If you have to see distant relatives, old family friends etc that do not know about your split, then it will be worth your time informing them in advance. You don’t want an awkward Christmas party having to tell various different aunts why your other half isn’t attending. If your family and friends like to have a gossip, tell them in enough time to talk amongst themselves and get it out their system.
Plan some fun
It is easy to get bogged down with life admin when you are going through your divorce, so take the Christmas period as an excuse to plan some fun with friends and give yourself a break from stress and worry.