During a divorce, you may feel pressured by many forces, including your spouse. Some may even feel guilted into making quick decisions they might regret later. It’s important to remember that divorce is not just an emotional process; it’s also a legal one. The actions you take during your divorce process will have long-term consequences. To protect your future, it helps to approach divorce like a business person—detached, clear-headed, and strategic.
The Regular Person vs. The Business Person
During a divorce, it often feels like there are two versions of yourself: the regular person and the business person. The regular person feels the emotional weight of the situation. This part of you may want to hold onto the past, make emotional decisions, or even give up more than you should because of guilt or exhaustion. The regular person may get overwhelmed, reacting to conflict or pressure from the other side. Your spouse may push you to rush decisions, or you may feel pressured to make concessions to avoid more conflict.
On the other hand, the business person understands that this process has long-term legal and financial consequences. This version of you makes decisions with a clear mind and focuses on what’s best for your future. The business person does not let guilt or pressure from the other party dictate the outcome. They understand that dividing assets, determining custody, and setting support orders are legal processes that require careful consideration.
During divorce, it’s important to recognize when you act like a regular person and think like a businessperson.
Personal Feelings Blur Lines
In any divorce, personal feelings can complicate things. You fell in love, got married, and now those same emotions can make it hard to think clearly. But marriage also comes with legal obligations, and divorce is about unraveling those. The legal process of divorce takes time, just like it took time to build your life together. Untangling everything from finances to property isn’t as simple as deciding to end the relationship. Personal feelings can blur the lines between what you want emotionally and what is fair legally.
For example, you might think about giving up everything just to end the conflict. It might seem more straightforward to avoid the fight. But that’s where the business person must step in. This isn’t about “winning” or being stubborn; it’s about understanding that your decisions now will impact your future. You must consider the long-term consequences even if you want to let go of certain things, like a retirement account or a house. The emotional side of you might not see this, but the business person will.
One aspect often overlooked is the “abusive use of conflict.” This happens when one party, knowingly or unknowingly, uses the divorce process to create constant friction, drawing it out unnecessarily. It’s a common tactic in family law, and it’s important not to get drawn into endless arguments or power struggles. The business person recognizes these tactics for what they are and responds strategically, not emotionally.
Let Us Bring Out the Business Person In You
Divorce is hard. There’s no question about that. It’s natural to feel emotional, but it’s also essential to think clearly and protect your future. If you feel like the regular person is clouding your judgment, it’s okay to lean on a therapist or friends for support. Just don’t take those emotions out on your lawyer. They are there to guide you through the legal process. Let your business side drive the decisions.
If you’re facing divorce and feel overwhelmed by the legal and emotional aspects, schedule a consultation with ZafiroLaw. We can help you think like a business person and make the right decisions for your future.