Divorce is a complicated emotional process that can change how you go about life. It may feel like your divorce is taking over every part of your life, but what about work? Keep reading to find out how divorce affects your job.
Employment
It's important to understand that getting a divorce does not mean you will lose your job. Your boss cannot fire you simply because you got a divorce. Not only would doing so be incredibly mean-spirited but it would also be considered discrimination.
Employers cannot fire an employee without cause or because of a life change. Unless a worker's performance is negatively affected by a private matter to the point that they cannot function within their role, employers cannot take action against the employee. That said, divorce can affect your job in other ways.
Priorities
Divorce affects many things, including your priorities. When things are going well, it's easier to make plans and follow through on your to-do lists, but it naturally becomes harder to focus on what matters when many emotional things are happening in your life.
It may be difficult to focus on work priorities during divorce and after the settlement. Suddenly your to-do list doesn't seem so important, or maybe every day feels like a confusing, aimless mess without direction. If you struggle to focus and handle the workload, speak to your boss. It's always better, to be honest upfront than let things get so out of hand they become a disciplinary concern later.
Work Hours
Most people have no idea how busy divorce can be. You have to attend court dates, meet with financial advisors, gather documents, and schedule meetings about child custody. These are extremely important matters that require your full attention, and trying to squeeze in a meeting during lunch may not be the best idea.
If you can, take paid time off to handle some of the more significant issues in the divorce, like the court dates, to make sure you are focused on the task at hand. Speak with your manager about scheduling options and worktime flexibility if you need to.
Some people may need to do the opposite. Divorce is expensive, and you may need extra work hours to make up for the costs. Consider your current financial situation and consider whether you need extra hours in advance. It's impossible to anticipate the outcome of your divorce settlement, but it helps to think about these things ahead of time so you can have a plan in place.
Returning to Work
For spouses who stayed home before the divorce, reentering the workforce can be a scary thing. Depending on how long you stayed home, the job market may be completely different from how you remember it. Qualifications for the job you worked before may have changed, and many employers expect a different set of skills that you may not have.
It's important to remember that you aren't a bad person for staying home. While it may be difficult to reenter the workforce, you can do it and succeed. Countless training and certification programs are entirely virtual and can give you an edge over other applicants. Also, consider taking baby steps by applying for part-time jobs. A full-time job may be overwhelming, so take the time you need to adjust and use the experience to your advantage.
Find Support
Divorce can be an alienating experience, and you may feel like you have no support system. Feelings of loneliness, depression, and apathy can affect your willingness to work, attendance, and proficiency. That is why it's so important to find a support system after divorce.
There are people around you who can help provide emotional support during this difficult time. Friends, bosses, coworkers, and neighbors may have gone through a divorce or may be willing to listen to you. These relationships can make all the difference when going through a divorce.
Starting on the Right Foot
The best way to tackle life after divorce is to make sure your case is in good hands. An attorney can help provide the support and guidance you need to protect your interests. Lawyers help to take the weight of the legal side of divorce off of you so you can focus on emotional recovery.
If you are considering a divorce, contact Arnold Law Group, APC. Our compassionate advocates can provide knowledgeable advice backed by experience. Put your case in good hands with Arnold Law Group, APC.