A recent survey revealed that older people living alone are more likely to be lonely and depressed. Don’t become a victim – create a new life and don’t be afraid to try new things.
· The end of your marriage does not have to mean the end of your life. It may seem like it but it is just the end of one chapter of your life and the beginning of another. It is important that you focus on your future, not your past.
· Get clear about what you want and set goals to reach. Write your goals down – they must be specific and realistic and you must write down when you will complete them by. You will find that your life is much more focussed when you have written goals.
· Whilst it may feel ‘cleansing’ to complain about your ex to your friends, you don’t want to over extend their understanding and patience. If you are really having difficulty getting over it then seek professional help. It is also a good idea to make some new friends who did not know your ex.
· Take up new hobbies and interests. Is there anything you have always wanted to do but never had the time? There are all sorts of clubs and classes you can join. There are gardening clubs, reading groups, sewing circles, dance classes or keep fit classes. Alternatively you could take up a new sport – why not learn how to play golf or tennis?
· A great way of meeting people and doing something worthwhile at the same time is to volunteer. Hospitals and charities are always looking for people to contribute a few hours of their time.
2 Comments
November 17, 2008 at 6:37 am
I have been enlightened lately by all I have been learning about the grief process. It may be obvious to some of us, that divorce is a loss like a death is, and that there is a grieving process, yet I find there are either misunderstandings about the grief process or simply a lack of knowledge about it.
I just posted some thoughts & information about the grief process (and tried to break down some misunderstandings about it) on my blog: http://italiandreams.wordpress.com
I am wondering about your views on the grief process.
November 17, 2008 at 11:18 am
Hi Chandi
This is so true and I am planning to write about it. Grief is such an important stage and is often not recognised or acknowledged.
I think the Fisher programme is fabulous and I’m glad you’re finding it helpful.
Have you read ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ by Elizabeth Gilbert? It is a funny but touching book about her path through divorce.
You’re getting there Chandi – your future is, indeed, bright.
Best of luck and good wishes
Annie