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.