How Are You Supposed to Focus at Work During a Divorce?
If you and your spouse are currently divorcing, you are probably going through a difficult time right now, regardless of who initiated it. Divorce can bring out a lot of emotions that range from angry and relieved to depressed and lonely. If you have a job, however, these feelings can get in the way of a productive day at work, jeopardizing your career.
There are ways to cope with this emotional roller coaster so that you can continue to be effective at your job. Here are some tips to help you get through the workday during your divorce:
- Reorganize your desk: People tend to keep pictures and other sentimental keepsakes on their desk. If you have a photo of your spouse on your desk or a gift he or she might have given you, you need to clear these items from your desk since they will only distract you and aggravate your feelings while you are trying to work. This does not mean you have to throw them away, but you should at the very least take them home, far from where they can be disruptive. With that out of the way, you can decorate your desk with items that make you happy and help you think of a brighter future.
- Think ahead: You are likely going to seem different to your co-workers and noticeably sad at times, which might prompt them to ask what is wrong. Instead of letting their questions catch you off guard, prepare a reply or two. You can thank them for their concern or simply state that you are going through something personal. Depending on the nature of your relationship with your co-workers, you can decide what is best to say.
- Save it for later: It might be tempting to read emails from your lawyer or texts from a friend or relative regarding your soon-to-be-ex, but you should save these all for later. If you end up finding out some bad news regarding your divorce while you are at work, it can derail your whole day. To avoid this, make sure you read any divorce-related messages after work, unless it is absolutely time sensitive.
- Keep going: The more free time you have, the easier it is to let your thoughts dwell on your divorce. Do yourself a favor and stay busy at work to keep your mind from wandering into unhappy thoughts. No one is saying you should avoid your emotions altogether, but work is not the time or place to work through them.
- Boost your mood: If watching a quick YouTube video or listening to a particular song makes you happy, go for it. This is a great way to give yourself a quick little mood boost throughout the day to give you the motivation you need to persevere.
- Get away for a few minutes: If you are feeling particularly stressed out, step away from your desk and take a break. Consider getting a cup of coffee, taking a short walk, or even just sitting in your car for a while to enjoy some peace and quiet. Pausing during your workday will help immensely.
Speak to an Attorney Today – (888) 224-1218
Divorce is an emotional and complicated process to endure, which is why having a skilled legal representative on your side is so crucial. At Sherwood, Johnson & Poles, our family law attorneys in New Jersey are backed by over 25 years of combined legal experience, so you can trust that our team is prepared to effectively assist you in navigating a vast range of family law matters, including divorce, child custody, mediation, spousal support, and more.
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