If you’re preparing to divorce in the new year, you may have some concerns about how it will affect your work – particularly if you go to an office or other workplace every day. For many people, it’s a relief to focus on work rather than the myriad decisions and concerns that surround their divorce.
However, it can still be difficult to navigate what’s happening in your life and maintain your professionalism and commitment to your job. Let’s look at a few things that will help.
Tell your manager about the divorce
Even if you aren’t close enough to anyone at work to tell them about the divorce, your boss needs to know. You don’t have to – and probably shouldn’t – share too many details. However, you may need to take a little time off at some point to deal with legal matters or childcare issues. Don’t spring the news on them only when you need to leave early or take a morning off.
This is also a good opportunity to reassure your boss that you’re committed to not letting your divorce affect your productivity or attitude toward your work. If you’re telling anyone else at work, don’t do it before you tell your boss.
Minimize distractions
It may be best to keep your personal phone off and refrain from checking your personal email at work. Even relatively mundane texts from your soon-to-be-ex or your attorney can destroy your focus. If necessary, check these only on your lunch hour.
If your desk or work area has been filled with photos of happier times with your spouse, it may be best to remove them. You can replace them with photos of your kids, your pets or anything else that helps you feel calmer and happier.
Decide how much to tell your co-workers
Even if you only tell your boss and your closest friend at work about the divorce, the word always seems to get around. You don’t have to tell people any more than you feel comfortable doing. Have a polite but short response to their questions ready – something like, “I’m doing fine. Thank you for asking,” and leave it at that.
The last thing you want to do right now is jeopardize your job. By having experienced legal guidance, you can leave the details to a professional while you focus on your work, your children and your physical and mental well-being.
