Divorce is a time of emotional upheaval for most people. Many find it difficult to maintain their pre-divorce levels of focus when it comes to work and other obligations, but this might be the most important time to do so. Since divorce often has a financial impact on both parties, you can’t afford to let your performance slip. If your employment status changes during your divorce, be sure to let your Toronto divorce lawyer know right away; changes in your work situation might affect your case—particularly in the realm of spousal support or child support.
Leaving Family Issues at Home
While it’s easier said than done, you’ll need to make a significant effort to keep your divorce out of the office. Getting bogged down with worries about finances, living accommodations and the things that will come up in the next meeting with your Toronto divorce lawyer can distract you from getting the job done.
A big part of maintaining your professional reputation is keeping your personal business to yourself. If the office gossip starts needling you for information, keep things simple by politely saying yes, but that you’d prefer to keep your work and family lives separate. However, let your immediate supervisor know in case you have divorce-related issues that intensify.
Leaving Work Issues at Work
At the end of the day, leave your work where it belongs: in the office. If you have kids, they need you to be yourself without extra distractions—divorce is tough for them, too. If you don’t have children, take your time off to get to know yourself again so that you’re comfortable with who you are as a single person.
Save Your Sick Days
You might need to take unexpected sick days during your divorce. While your Toronto divorce lawyer will tell you when and if you need to be in court, you may have to take days off for other reasons. What happens if your ex doesn’t take the kids, you need an emergency meeting with your lawyer or you actually do get a little under-the-weather? You’ll need to save your sick days and avoid taking them unless it’s truly necessary to avoid inadvertently hurting your career.
Keeping in Tune with Your Family and Friends
When you’re not at work, relax with your family and friends. Socializing with people you care about can help recharge you so you’re ready to give your work the attention it deserves. The added bonus is that having fun with people you love will help keep your spirits up and keep your mind off the stresses related to your divorce.
Thousands of Canadians divorce each year, and most of them successfully juggle a career and their everyday lives. A significant portion also makes time to talk to a qualified therapist or counselor who specializes in divorce, so consider asking your Toronto divorce lawyer for a referral during your next meeting.
