Our Amy Trevellick shares some advice for those who are newly separated or divorced this Christmas.
For many people, Christmas is a particularly special time of year. Spending time with their loved ones, and seeing glee on their children’s faces as they open their presents on Christmas morning. But for others, Christmas can put a huge strain on their relationship and you may find yourself dreading spending another Christmas at home with your partner or spouse.
Our Amy Trevellick shares some advice for those who are newly separated or divorced this Christmas.
For many people, Christmas is a particularly special time of year. Spending time with their loved ones, and seeing glee on their children’s faces as they open their presents on Christmas morning. But for others, Christmas can put a huge strain on their relationship and you may find yourself dreading spending another Christmas at home with your partner or spouse.
It is of course, commonly said that January sees a “divorce boom”. The press has even coined the first working Monday of January “National Divorce Day”. But what is the reality of a divorce, and could you see yourself spending Christmas 2021 as a single person?
One of the most rewarding things about being a family lawyer, if not the most rewarding, is to see my client’s go through the journey and come out the other end a stronger and happier person. Although the thought of being alone (at Christmas or any other time of the year) may fill you with dread, I speak from many years of experience in saying, it is never as bad as you think. In fact, many of my client’s feel liberated at the idea of a fresh start, and handily, Christmas is soon followed by a brand-new year; full of new opportunities. So here are some top tips to get you through your first Christmas after a divorce or separation;
Try something new, something totally different to what you would usually do “as a family”. Create your own new traditions for yourself and your kids. You are still a family and you can still have a wonderful Christmas experience.
Ensure that the children know where they will spend Christmas, when they will see their other parent and reassure them that you will be OK while they are spending time with your ex (even if you are not convinced of that yourself).
Stock up on your favourite foods, a good book and some classic DVDs. Plan some time for yourself, relax! But also plan something sociable as well, so you have something to look forward to if you do get a little blue. Don’t forget to buy yourself a gift. Maybe something self-indulgent such as a beauty treatment, a massage or a new outfit.
Or perhaps volunteer to work for a charity over Christmas. Create a warm glow inside by giving something back to people who need it most.
If you would like to discuss a divorce or separation, call us in confidence on 01327 368921 or amytrevellick@newleafsolicitors.co.uk
