Going through a divorce can be one of life’s most stressful experiences. That stress can affect many aspects of your life, including your job. Here are five things you can do to handle your divorce appropriately at work.
Tell Your Boss and Don’t Share Details with Co-Workers or Clients
It is important that your boss knows when you are experiencing any personal crisis, including a divorce. Tell them that you are going through a divorce so that they can be prepared to provide you with reasonable accommodations, if necessary. This may include the need to take time off for hearing dates.
Although your conversation should be kept confidential, do not feel obligated to share intimate details. Having everyone in the office know about your situation can add unnecessary stress. Unless your divorce will impact a co-worker or client, it may be best to keep the details to yourself.
Discuss Your Options with Human Resources
Divorce can affect your retirement plan, pension plan, health insurance, life insurance and other benefits. Your human resources department will be able to provide you with relevant information regarding your options.
You may also need to change certain information on your paperwork. It is prudent to plan ahead for these situations to ensure as smooth of a transition as possible at work.
Reconsider Your Current Career
You may need some degree of flexibility while attending court hearings, complying with child custody and visitation agreements and other obligations associated with divorce. You may want to reconsider whether your career affords you this flexibility.
Adjusting to one income may prompt you to ask for a raise, start your own business, go to school or engage in other activities to advance your career and ensure your individual financial security. Be sure to consider your options carefully and avoid making rash decisions.
Remain Professional
It is important to minimize contact with your ex, your attorney and others involved in the divorce while you are at work. It is important not to use your work email for communications with your attorney or your spouse. You may put yourself in jeopardy of losing your job if you are not performing your responsibilities adequately. Try to remain focused and continue fulfilling your duties.
You may also be experiencing a lot of emotions while going through a divorce. It may be helpful to not think about the negative aspects of your situation while you are at work so that you not only give yourself a break but also so that you can remain professional.
Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health
Stressful life events like going through a divorce can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Make special efforts to maintain self-care. Regular exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep can help dissipate stress and ward off depression. Social support can also help you get through this difficult time. Making time for friends and activities that you enjoy can help you feel focused and energized while you are at work.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Offer Knowledgeable Divorce Counsel
Contact an experienced Towson divorce lawyer at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC today at 443-589-0150 or contact us online. From our offices in Hunt Valley and Towson, Maryland we represent clients throughout the greater Baltimore area with all types of family law matters. We help you sleep at night.
