Summary: In this episode of the surviving divorce podcast I discuss the importance of taking time for yourself. Life can seem overwhelming in the months and years following a divorce. You are riding an emotional roller coaster and you just don't have the emotional energy to keep up with your pre-divorce schedule. The depression, anger, and loneliness stemming from the divorce process take a toll on you and make it hard to bounce back. Work, the pressures of running a household by yourself, and the pressures of single parenting can take their toll. Having to handle all of the household chores by yourself can be a major adjustment, especially if you shared those duties in your marriage. Becoming a single parent is arguably the biggest cause of added stress after a divorce. Your children are hurting as much or more than you are and tensions are high in the family. It is important for you to make some time for yourself to relax and de-stress on a regular basis. You may want to read, go for a walk, go to the gym, or anything else that you enjoy. Your children and those around you will thank you for spending some time on yourself. You will be a better parent, employee, friend, etc. if you take care of yourself first. It's like the pre-flight instructions flight attendants give before a flight. They tell you that if the cabin loses pressure and you are sitting next to someone who needs help, put your oxygen mask on first before helping others. You can't help them if you pass out due to lack of oxygen. You can't be the best you can be if you are running on empty. Please leave a comment and tell me what you think. If you have a question you would like answered on the podcast leave a voicemail at 347-433-7664 or click on the link to the right and use your computer microphone. God Bless, G.D.
