Janette Brooker

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Rebuilding your confidence in 9 steps

Rebuilding your confidence after a divorce can be a challenging process, but with the combination of time and the right support, you will regain your independence and your sense of self.

Here are the key steps to rebuilding your confidence:

1. Allow yourself to grieve

Divorce is a significant life changing event. It can bring about feelings of loss and sadness.

Give yourself permission and the opportunity to grieve the end of a significant relationship by acknowledging your emotions and allowing yourself to heal.

2. Seek support

It's wise to surround yourself with a strong support system of family, friends, and a specialist divorce coach.

Using friends and family for support is fine, but be wary of taking their advice. Relying on them for advice can be a mistake, as receiving biassed or conflicting advice from different places can cause confusion. Instead, look to a professional coach to understand your emotions and help you gain perspective.

3. Reflect on the past

Take time to reflect on the lessons learned from your marriage and divorce, but don't dwell on it.

Consider the learnings from the experience, what could you have done differently, and what has the divorce taught you about yourself. See it as a good opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.

4. Set goals

It's a good idea to start small and set achievable goals for yourself.

Focus on activities that you enjoy, and that make you feel good about yourself. As you accomplish these goals, make a note of it to reflect on later.

When reflecting, review your notes on what you have done on your own, without your ex. It will help your confidence to naturally grow.

5. Step out of your comfort zone

Completed step 4? Then it's time to challenge yourself to try new things and step out of your comfort zone.

Consider taking up a new hobby, joining a club or organisation, or volunteering for a Charity or not-for-profit that you care about.

Stepping outside of your comfort zone will be scary. At least initially. Lean into the discomfort, it will help expand your confidence and abilities once you get over the fear.

6. Practice self-care

Put your mask on before assisting others. Have you ever wondered why cabin crew say this? Because if you aren't functioning at your best, you can't help others. So look after yourself first, THEN assist others.

You can do this by prioritising self-care and undertaking activities that promote your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Consider options like regular exercise, a healthy diet, sleep, mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Engaging in activities that bring you joy and reduce stress.

7. Be your own cheerleader

Recognise and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Each step forward is a testament to your strength and resilience. Celebrating milestones will boost your confidence and motivate you to keep moving forward and embrace independence.

8. Learn from setbacks

Are you aware that setbacks are a natural part of the process?

You will encounter obstacles or setbacks, the key is to not be too hard on yourself. Learn from the experience, adjust your approach if necessary, and keep persevering.

Remember, setbacks are opportunities for growth.

9. Embrace independence

Embrace the opportunity to rediscover yourself and your independence.

Learning to enjoy your own company and be comfortable with being alone can take.some.time.. Take pride in your ability to make decisions and handle situations on your own.

Remember, rebuilding confidence after a divorce is not instantaneous. You will need to be patient with yourself. Celebrate each small victory along the way and have faith in your ability to create a fulfilling and confident life post-divorce.

If you need support transitioning to your new circumstances, I offer tailored service for individuals just like you. Let's chat.