The Do’s and Don’ts of Divorce and Your Career

The Do’s and Don’ts of Divorce and Your Career

Divorce doesn’t just disrupt your personal life- it can shake your professional world, too. Whether you’re balancing work stress with emotional upheaval, returning to the workforce, or reconsidering your career path entirely, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. This post offers trauma-informed guidance on navigating your career with clarity and confidence during and after divorce.

✅ Do’s

• Do communicate with your employer if appropriate.
  You don’t have to share everything but letting your manager or HR know you’re going through a transition may help create space for flexibility or support.

• Do set boundaries at work.
  Divorce can drain your focus. Prioritize what truly matters and give yourself permission to say “no” to extra projects while you regain your footing.

• Do explore your financial needs and career goals.
  This might be a time for a shift whether it’s increasing hours, going back to school, or finally launching that side hustle. Rebuilding can also mean reinventing.

• Do take time to assess your values.
  Divorce can clarify what’s no longer aligned in relationships and in careers. Ask yourself: “What do I want my work life to feel like moving forward?”

• Do ask for help if you’re reentering the workforce.
  Reach out to friends, career coaches, or local orgs that help with resumes, interviews, and skill-building. This isn’t a solo mission.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t make major career decisions in a panic.
  Feeling financially unstable doesn’t mean you need to quit or change jobs tomorrow. Regulate your stress first then plan your moves.

• Don’t assume you’re starting from scratch.
  Even if you’ve been out of the workforce, you bring skills, wisdom, and emotional intelligence. Don’t minimize what you’ve learned through life.

• Don’t use work to avoid your emotions.
  Overworking might distract you temporarily, but emotional avoidance can backfire. Make space to feel and heal.

• Don’t let divorce define your professional identity.
  You are still you- capable, intelligent, and worthy of growth. Divorce is a chapter, not your title.

• Don’t isolate.
  Let mentors, coworkers, or your professional network in. A quick coffee chat or connection can make you feel seen and open unexpected doors.

Closing Thought

Divorce may feel like it’s knocking everything off balance but it can also be the moment you stop settling. Your career can become a powerful source of stability, independence, and pride. Start small, ask for what you need, and trust that your professional path can rise from this, stronger than ever.