8 Things You Don’t Realize About Divorce Until You Go Through It

Divorce is one of those life experiences that you can never fully understand until you’re in it. No matter how many movies you’ve watched, friends you’ve supported, or advice you’ve gathered, the reality is often different—and much more complicated. Here are eight things you don’t realize about divorce until you go through it.

1. It’s Not Just a Legal Process—It’s an Emotional Marathon

Most people focus on the legal side of divorce—dividing assets, custody agreements, and paperwork. But the emotional weight of it all is just as challenging, if not more. It’s a rollercoaster of grief, relief, anxiety, and sometimes, unexpected joy.

2. Your Identity Takes a Hit

Divorce can leave you questioning who you are outside of your marriage. Your routines, your last name (maybe), your traditions—all of it changes. Even if the marriage wasn’t great, the shift in identity can be jarring.

3. Friends Will Disappear (And Some Will Surprise You)

Divorce has a way of shaking up your social circle. Some people will pull away, whether because they feel uncomfortable or don’t know what to say. Others, maybe those you weren’t even that close to before, will step up in ways you never expected.

4. You’ll Second-Guess Yourself More Than You Thought

Even if you’re 100% sure divorce was the right decision, there will still be moments of doubt. The loneliness, the ‘what-ifs,’ and the fear of the unknown can creep in unexpectedly.

5. Holidays Will Feel Different—And That’s Hard

The first birthday, the first Christmas, and the first anniversary of what would’ve been another year of marriage feel different. Sometimes, it’s sad. Other times, it’s a relief. But no matter what, it’s an adjustment.

6. Dating Again Is Both Terrifying and Exciting

Whether you wait years or jump in quickly, re-entering the dating world after divorce is a new experience. The rules have changed, you’ve changed, and sometimes, it feels like learning to walk all over again.

7. Your Ex Will Move On—And That Might Sting

Even if you don’t want them back, seeing your ex with someone new can hit you differently than expected. It’s a reminder that life is moving forward—for both of you.

8. You’ll Become Stronger in Ways You Never Imagined

Divorce reshapes you. You learn to make decisions on your own, trust yourself again, and build a new life that’s yours. It may be one of the hardest things you go through, but it can also be the beginning of something beautiful.

Divorce is more than just a breakup—it’s a complete life transition. The things you don’t expect often end up teaching you the most. If you’re in the middle or on the other side, know you’re not alone. You’re growing, even in the moments that feel impossible.

We are thinking about you!

Erin

Let's Dish:

• What is something that you realize after your divorce?

• What is one thing you would tell someone considering divorce?

• What was the most challenging part?