When going through a divorce, it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. You’re juggling emotional and financial issues which at times can be overwhelming.
Some people find themselves completely shutting down and wanting to sleep all the time. Others may become so busy with life that they postpone dealing with their emotions.
Think of life after your divorce as a fresh start. It’s a time for you to figure out what you want from life.
Give yourself permission to take ownership of your life. Use the 5 P’s of Life as a guide to redefine your lifestyle.
The 5 P’s of Life are key areas of life:
- personal relationships (activities with family and friends),
- personal finance (financial security and major purchases),
- profession (how you generate income),
- peace of mind (what you do for a stronger sense of self), and
- physical health (what you do for a strong body).
For each category, brainstorm what you want to do in life. To start, ask yourself these questions.
PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
Do you want to rebuild past friendships?
Would you like to expand your social circle?
Do you want to re-establish family relationships?
PERSONAL FINANCE:
Do you need to reduce your debt?
Is your emergency reserve sufficient?
Are you saving enough to afford the retirement lifestyle you envision for yourself?
PROFESSION:
Do you want to pursue an advanced degree?
Would you like a more challenging role in your firm or at a new firm?
Do you want to start your own business?
PEACE OF MIND:
Do you want to travel solo?
Is there a nonprofit you’d like to volunteer your time and knowledge?
Do you need to find ways to strengthen your mental health?
PHYSICAL HEALTH:
Do you need to eat healthier?
Is there a social sport you’d like to learn (e.g., golf, pickleball)?
Do you need to improve your quality of sleep?
At first, it may be difficult to think of things you want to do. But the more often you ask yourself these questions, the deeper you’ll dig to discover who you really are.
Enjoy this journey, no matter how frustrating it can be. And remember, stay PEF (positive, enthusiastic, focused)!
(Update to original post from October 26, 2017)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA™, RICP®,CRPC®, is the Founder of Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing spending plans, comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”