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Articles to Support You
Gift ideas, support inspiration, affirmations and so much more.
Find a selection of articles below, but we have so many more! Browse them, search them, send them.
Most Recentโ
A readerโs mom and sibling keep criticizing her ex in front of the kids, and they think theyโre helping. In this monthโs Jenny Says So, Jenny explains how to draw a firm line without debating your exโs merits, and offers a script for the pushback thatโs sure to follow.
November Letter from the Editor
November asks us to feel grateful, which can be a lot to ask in the middle of a divorce. In this monthโs letter, Editor in Chief Jenny Dreizen suggests a gentler approach: noticing one small thing that went okay, and letting that be enough. She also thanks the experts, supporters and everyday helpers who make this work possible.
Photo by Terrie Alifieri
Podcast Spotlight: The Families First Podcast from โRon Platt of National Association for Single and Divorced Families
Here's How Working With a Divorce Coach Can Help You by Cherie Morris, Divorce Coach of Dear Divorce Coach
The Problem With Asking AI for Divorce Advice by Elise Buie, Family Law and Divorce Attorney
A free divorce task list of 48 small, practical steps, from finding paperwork to organizing your finances. Sort by how much time you have, or download the full printable PDF checklist.
Your wife just told you she wants a divorce. Here's how to respond, what to know about the kids and the house, and where to find support for yourself.
Your husband just told you he wants a divorce. Here's how to get through the first days, what not to sign, and how to get clear on money and support.
Your spouse just told you they want a divorce. Here's what to do first: how to respond, what not to agree to yet, and where to find support.
Yes, men can use Fresh Starts Registry. Here's how men can make a divorce registry, find divorce professionals, and get support after divorce.
Wondering if a divorce registry is tacky or selfish? Honest answers on etiquette, timing, how to share your registry, and who it's for.
Starting over after divorce happens in two layers: the practical and the personal. Here's where to begin with your home, money, identity, and support.
You've told your wife you want a divorce. Here's how to handle the days that follow: living together, money, the kids, and finding support for yourself.
You've told your husband you want a divorce. Here's what to focus on next: the first few days, housing, the kids, and building your support team.
Not sure what to do next in your divorce? Find your starting point, whether you've just decided, just told your spouse, or just signed the final papers.
The First Day of School After Divorce: Creating New Traditions by Meg Priest, Divorce Coach
Assumed your closest, oldest friends would show up no matter what, and divorce revealed something different? Here's how to make peace with people not being who you thought they were.
Loved so generously since your divorce that it's become a lot, and you feel guilty wanting space? Here's how to ask for room to breathe without hurting the person who showed up.
Realized your longtime friend group wasn't actually there for your divorce, while newer friends were? Here's why crisis reveals capacity, not just years of history.
Can't stop tallying which mutual friends "chose sides" after your divorce? Here's why keeping score happens, and how to actually redirect that energy toward moving forward.
Feeling guilty for needing support after divorce, and reflexively saying "I'm fine" even when you're not? Here's why that habit backfires, and how to actually let people show up for you.
A close friend going silent right after learning about your divorce is a real, distinct grief. Here's how to think through whether to reach out one more time or let it go.
This November, the Divorce Happens Community is digging into "Who Showed Up," a theme about the friendships that surprised us, the ones that quietly disappeared, and everything in between.
When the Hard Part Lasts Longer Than You Expected by Karen LeClaire, Stress & Performance Specialist for Life Transitions of CCE Performance and North Andover Counseling Professionals
Co-Parenting Doesnโt Just Need Better Communication. It Needs Better Thinking. by Trina A. Nudson, JD, LBSW of BeH2Oยฎ and BeAlignedโข
Inspiration
Are you ready for a Fresh Start? Here are 5 quotes about starting over and beginning again to inspire you on your new journey.
Tweets are the new mantras. Weโre rounding up our top 5 weekly Tweets to inspire us on our Fresh Starts journey.
Expert Articles
Podcast Spotlight: The Families First Podcast from โRon Platt of National Association for Single and Divorced Families
Here's How Working With a Divorce Coach Can Help You by Cherie Morris, Divorce Coach of Dear Divorce Coach
The Problem With Asking AI for Divorce Advice by Elise Buie, Family Law and Divorce Attorney
The First Day of School After Divorce: Creating New Traditions by Meg Priest, Divorce Coach
When the Hard Part Lasts Longer Than You Expected by Karen LeClaire, Stress & Performance Specialist for Life Transitions of CCE Performance and North Andover Counseling Professionals
Co-Parenting Doesnโt Just Need Better Communication. It Needs Better Thinking. by Trina A. Nudson, JD, LBSW of BeH2Oยฎ and BeAlignedโข
How My Business Became the Foundation of My Next Chapter by Joselyn Martinez of Balance Financial Solutions
Brief Lifeclass: Narcissistic Maneuvering 101 by Stacey Sanderson of Sanderson Psychotherapy, Coaching and Consulting
What if Mediation Isnโt an Option? by Nancy Gabriel of Mediation Around The Table, LLC
Reconnecting With Your Values After Separation or Divorce by Kandice Thorn of Kandice Thorn Coaching
Preparing For a A Divorce From a Relationship Where There is Coercive Control by Lisa Happ of Lisa Happ Coaching
I Survived the Divorce. Why Donโt I Feel Better? by Leah Marie Mazur of Mindfully Ready, Divorce Recovery Coach for Women
Learning to Trust Myself the Way My Favorite Friend Did by Rachel Newhouse of Breaking Upward
Before You Sign Away Your Financial Future, Know What Youโre Agreeing To by Donna Cates, CDFA by Donna Cates, CDFA
What You Need To Know About Human Trafficking by Molly England of Willow of Wellness LLC
Grounded in ACT: How Metaphors and the Choice Point Model Strengthen Connection in Therapy by Molly England of Willow of Wellness LLC
Motherhood and Identity: How ACT Supports Redefining the Self as a New Mom by Molly England of Willow of Wellness LLC
Will My Kids Be Okay?: The First 90 Days of a Divorce Shape Everything & How to Make them Count by Kate Alcamo of The Co-Parent Collective
10 Reasons Why High-Performing Women Struggle in Relationships by Ksenia Muench, Divorce Coach
Living Together During Divorce: The Strange Space Between What Was and Whatโs Next by Lisa Lisser of LZL Coaching
5 Small Ways to Start Trusting Yourself Again After Divorce by Leah Marie Mazur of Mindfully Ready, Divorce Recovery Coach for Women
The College Conversation Divorcing Parents Can't Afford to Avoid by Vicki Vollweiler of College Financial Prep, Divorce & College Planning Expert
Can I Afford Therapy? A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Insurance and Out-of-Network by Carrie Mead of Carrie Mead, LCPC
Helpful Distractions
Sometimes we all just need to check out of life for a while, whether youโre going through a depression, having a difficult time, or just need to hide from the world โ we get it, weโve been there! Hereโs our list of 10 television shows to watch when youโre feeling depressed. Weโre sending you love, and hope you wrap yourself in a warm blanket, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and snuggle in for some binge-watching.
Sometimes we all just need to escape mentally for a while, so we rounded up 10 funny and interesting documentaries to watch for when youโre feeling low. With a mix of everything from Pixar, to Mister Rogers, music, food, and more, weโre sure thereโs something here to watch with a bowl of popcorn and a Diet Coke.
There is truly nothing we love more than snuggling up with a good book and cup of cocoa during the winter (yes, this counts even if you live on the West Coast!). The only thing that would make it better? A Cozy Playlist, of course! We curated this 45 minute long playlist to give you a peaceful break during the day. Chock full of old and new faves, itโs the perfect way to warm up and zone out.
Need to escape for a few hours? We rounded up our favorite reality competition TV shows for those times when you need to zone out and distract yourself. Nothing about romance or home-buying here, though! Food fun and nostalgia TV all the way.
Youโre in the early days of your fresh start and the idea of closing your eyes and you know- thinking thoughts, is way, way too horrifying (been there, sis). You need a companion- not a person, but a show. You need a show you can binge.
Divorce Guide Magazine
The First Day of School After Divorce: Creating New Traditions by Meg Priest, Divorce Coach
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a relationship coach while navigating your divorce to find the right support for healing, rebuilding confidence, and improving communication. Learn how their experience, coaching strategies, and emotional sensitivity can help you move forward stronger and more self-aware.
What Happens When Youโre a Stepparent - and Youโre Getting Divorced by Meg Priest, Divorce Coach
In an insightful interview, Meg Priest, a Divorce Professional, shares her personal journey through divorce. She discusses the emotional challenges, the importance of clarity, and her mission to provide clients with the guidance she wished she had during her own transition. Embrace your fresh start with integrity and self-trust!
Preparing for divorce can feel overwhelming, but gathering the right documents early makes the process smoother. From tax returns and pay stubs to retirement statements and insurance policies, hereโs what to collect before filing. Download our free ebook What to Consider When Youโre Considering Divorce for step-by-step guidance.
Divorce can dramatically impact your retirement savings, especially IRAs and 401(k)s. Learn the essentials of dividing these assets through Transfer Incidents and QDROs, understand tax implications, and avoid common pitfalls. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know to protect your financial future during divorce and ensure long-term stability.
Buying a house on your own after a divorce is a bold step towards reclaiming your independence and rebuilding your life. But itโs crucial to go into it with eyes wide open. Asking your mortgage lender these ten questions ensures that you understand not just what youโre signing up for, but how to thrive as a solo homeowner
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a relationship coach while navigating your divorce to find the right support for healing, rebuilding confidence, and improving communication. Learn how their experience, coaching strategies, and emotional sensitivity can help you move forward stronger and more self-aware.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a children's therapist while navigating divorce to ensure your child receives the emotional support they need. Learn how their experience, therapeutic approach, and ability to handle co-parenting dynamics can provide a safe space for your child to heal and grow.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a fitness instructor or movement coach while navigating your divorce to find the right support for rebuilding physical strength, reducing stress, and boosting confidence. Learn how their experience, fitness programs, and emotional sensitivity can help you thrive during this transition.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a professional organizer while navigating a divorce to find the right support for decluttering, downsizing, and moving. Learn how their experience, organizing strategies, and emotional sensitivity can help you create a fresh, organized start post-divorce.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a life coach while navigating a divorce to find the right support for emotional recovery, goal setting, and rebuilding your life. Learn how their experience, mindfulness strategies, and community-building guidance can empower you to thrive post-divorce.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a career coach while navigating a divorce to find the right support for your professional growth. Learn how their experience, strategies for re-entering the workforce, and interview preparation can help you achieve financial independence and confidence post-divorce.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask a potential co-parenting coach to ensure successful communication and harmony post-divorce. Learn how their experience, conflict resolution skills, and approach to parenting plans can help create a smooth, child-focused co-parenting experience.
Learn the 10 essential questions to ask a potential divorce mediator to ensure a smooth, fair, and confidential mediation process. From understanding their experience and mediation style to confidentiality and cost structure, discover what you need to know before making your choice. Find the right mediator to guide you through a collaborative, stress-free divorce process.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask when choosing a divorce coach. Learn how to assess their experience, support for high-conflict situations, understanding of co-parenting, and emotional resilience strategies. Explore how the right coach can help you navigate the complexities of divorce, rebuild your life, and set clear goals for your future.
Discover the 10 essential questions to ask when choosing a therapist during divorce. From co-parenting support and managing high-conflict divorces to understanding therapeutic methods and financial stress, ensure your therapist is equipped to guide you through this transformative life event.
When your lawyer says, "Make a list of everything you want," it can feel overwhelming. Divorce is about more than paperwork โ it's about protecting your future, your childrenโs stability, and your ability to rebuild. This guide breaks down exactly what to ask for in a divorce, why each item matters, and how to advocate for yourself clearly and confidently.
When youโre navigating divorce, custody, domestic violence, or property division โ or any life-changing legal situation โ having professional legal guidance can be the difference between confusion and confidence. But what if hiring a lawyer at full price just isnโt possible right now? Letโs walk through one of the smartest ways to get professional help without breaking the bank: Legal Aid and Sliding Scale Legal Services.
Considering a DIY divorce? Before you file on your own, learn the key factors you need to weigh, from legal risks to emotional impact. A do-it-yourself divorce can save money, but itโs not always the right fit. Discover what to consider to protect your future and make confident, informed decisions.
If youโre ready to get divorced but canโt afford a lawyerโor simply want to handle the process on your ownโthereโs a powerful, low-cost option you might not know enough about: self-filing for divorce, also known as DIY divorce. With the right tools, resources, and guidance, many people successfully complete their divorce without legal representationโespecially when both spouses agree on the major issues like custody, support, and property division. This guide walks you through what DIY divorce is, why itโs a smart choice for many, and how to get started step by step.
Going through divorce or custody issues but canโt afford a lawyer? Law school legal clinics offer free family law support from supervised students. This blog post explains how to find a clinic near you, what services they provide, and how to apply. Learn how to access divorce help, court filings, and custody guidanceโwithout the legal fees.
Need help covering the cost of your divorce? This blog post offers practical, respectful advice on how to ask friends or family for a short-term loanโwithout guilt or burning bridges. Learn how to create a repayment plan, approach the conversation with confidence, and fund your fresh start with support and clarity. Perfect for anyone starting over on a budget.
If youโre facing divorce, leaving an unsafe relationship, or navigating a major life change without support, nonprofit organizations and shelters can be a lifeline. This blog post shares how to find free, confidential helpโlike legal aid, housing, transportation, and moreโthrough womenโs shelters, local nonprofits, and national resources like 211 and The Hotline.
Divorce can be expensive, but legal help doesnโt have to be out of reach. This blog post walks you through how to find family law attorneys who offer payment plans, flat fees, or unbundled services. Learn how to ask about payment options during consultations and where to search for budget-friendly legal support so you can move forward without financial overwhelm.
If youโre facing divorce or a custody battle and canโt afford a lawyer, pro bono attorneys can help. This blog post explains how to find free legal support through state bar associations, legal aid clinics, and nonprofit organizations. Learn who qualifies, what to expect, and how to confidently ask for the help you deserve.
Filing for divorceโor any family court actionโcan be overwhelming enough without the added stress of high court filing fees. The good news? You might not have to pay them at all. If youโre struggling financially, your local courthouse may allow you to file "In Forma Pauperis"โa legal term that simply means "in the form of a pauper" or, more plainly, you canโt afford the costs and need them waived. Hereโs everything you need to know, including exact scripts for calling your courthouse, and step-by-step instructions to get started.
Fresh and Easy Meals
Feeling broke, tired, and overwhelmed but still want your childโs birthday to feel special? Hereโs how to create a meaningful, low-cost birthday dinner filled with love, connection, and comfort.
Learn how to stretch one rotisserie chicken into a week of easy, affordable meals for families. Simple, healthy recipes for busy single parents on a budget.
Struggling to feed your kids while youโre depressed, broke, or too tired to cook? This compassionate guide offers simple, affordable meal ideas and emotional support for single moms surviving hard days.
Feed your family all week for under $40 with these easy, freezer-friendly batch cooking recipes for single moms. Cheap, kid-friendly, and stress-free meals that save time and money.
Canโt get to the grocery store? Make simple, cheap, kid-friendly meals from pantry staples like rice, beans, and canned goods. Easy, healthy, and under $1 per serving.
Feed your family of four on $60โ$70 a week with this compassionate, budget-friendly seven-day meal plan. Simple, healthy dinners and a full shopping list for single moms.
Feed your family on $10 a day with these healthy, affordable breakfast and lunch ideas for single moms. Simple, kid-friendly meals that make every dollar count.
Quick, affordable, no-cook meals for single moms. 10 lifesaver dinners ready in minutesโkid-friendly, low-cost, and stress-free when youโre too tired to cook.
Find free or nearly-free food for single moms. Real, compassionate resourcesโpantries, food banks, WIC, SNAP, and local programsโto help feed your family.
Discover cheap, comforting recipes just for moms after bedtimeโquick $1 meals that feel like self-care and prove you deserve more than leftovers.
Feeding a family on a tight budget? Here are 15 kid-friendly, comforting dinners for about $2 per servingโcheap, healthy, and stress-free meals any parent can make tonight.
Discover why Kekoa Foods is a game-changer for families starting over. Created by two dads for their son, these organic, veggie-rich purรฉes are perfect for babies and busy adults. Use them as dips, dressings, marinades, or smoothie boosters. Nutritious, delicious, and made with loveโKekoa Foods makes fresh starts easier and healthier.
From classic combinations to creative twists, we've curated a list of 200 incredibly easy sandwich ideas that are perfect for busy families on the go. Because when life gets hectic, sometimes all you need is a delicious meal to keep you fueled and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. So, let's toast to the power of simplicity and the joy of a well-made sandwich!
Check out these 200 incredibly easy salad ideas for when life gets overwhelming. Plus, a simple shopping list so you can stock your fridge and pantry - and a list of all of the items so you can mix and match to create your own simple salad ideas too!
Life can be a whirlwind sometimes. Between work, family, and just the everyday hustle and bustle, there are moments when cooking is a lot. Check out these 200 incredibly easy meal ideas for when life gets overwhelming. Plus, a simple shopping list so you can stock your fridge and pantry - and a list of all of the items so you can mix and match to create your own simple meal ideas too!
Sometimes in life, we quite simply cannot handle making food for ourselves. Itโs too much energy output, itโs exhausting, itโs overwhelming to know what to make, the thought of doing anything is just too much. But, we have to eat, right? We rounded up 10 meals that are incredibly easy to throw together when you simply cannot handle cooking.
Itโs been a long week, check out the 5 Tweets to help inspire you to live your best life this week.