What to Do If You’ve Been Thinking About Divorce Throughout the Holidays

The holidays have a way of bringing everything to the surface.

For some people, that means joy and connection. For others, it means noticing what hasn’t been working — sometimes for a long time. If you found yourself thinking about divorce during the holidays, you’re not alone. Quiet moments, family gatherings, and end-of-year reflection often make it harder to ignore feelings that have been sitting just under the surface.

If that’s where you are right now, here are a few thoughtful steps to help you move forward with clarity and care.

Start by acknowledging what you’re feeling

You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t even need to be sure what you want yet. Simply noticing that something feels off — or that you’ve been questioning your relationship — is an important first step.

Try to give yourself permission to reflect without judgment. These thoughts don’t mean you’ve failed, and they don’t mean you’ve already made a decision. They just mean something in your life is asking for attention.

Slow down before jumping to conclusions

Thinking about divorce doesn’t always mean divorce is the only solution. Sometimes it reflects unmet needs, communication breakdowns, or long-standing patterns that have become too heavy to carry quietly.

Before taking action, it can help to ask yourself:

• How long have I been feeling this way?

• What specifically feels unsustainable right now?

• What would need to change for things to feel healthier?

  
  

Clarity often comes from understanding the problem more deeply — not from rushing toward an outcome.

Learn what your options actually are

One of the most stressful parts of considering divorce is the unknown. People often imagine worst-case scenarios about finances, parenting, or conflict, which can make everything feel overwhelming.

This is where getting neutral, objective information can be incredibly grounding. Talking through your situation with a professional who understands divorce — but isn’t pushing you in any direction — can help you see what your real options are and what the process would actually look like.

You deserve facts, not fear.

Be intentional about communication

If you’re still living together, the holidays can sometimes highlight how disconnected things feel — even when everyone is “playing their part.” When and if you’re ready, thoughtful, respectful conversations can be helpful, even if they’re uncomfortable.

Structured support, like mediation, gives couples a calmer space to talk through difficult topics without blame or escalation. Even when partners don’t agree on everything, being heard and understood can make a meaningful difference.

Take care of yourself during this time

Thinking about divorce is emotionally taxing, especially during a season that already comes with expectations and pressure. Lean on trusted friends, consider talking with a therapist, and give yourself breaks from overthinking when you can.

Practical steps can also help you feel more grounded — organizing financial information, writing down questions, or simply getting clear on what you’re worried about most.

Small steps can restore a sense of control.

Remember: you don’t have to decide everything right now

The turn of the year can feel like a deadline, but it doesn’t have to be. You are allowed to move at a pace that feels right for you.

What matters most is making thoughtful, informed choices — not rushed ones made in the middle of emotional overload.

Ready for clarity? Consider a Divorce Preview

If you’ve been thinking about divorce and want clear, compassionate guidance before making any decisions, our Divorce Preview may be the right next step.

A Divorce Preview is a confidential, low-pressure conversation designed to help you understand:

• What divorce or separation would realistically look like in your situation

• Your options moving forward

• Common concerns around finances, parenting, and the process itself

  
  

You don’t need to be “sure” about divorce to reach out. This is simply a chance to get answers, reduce uncertainty, and feel more confident about whatever comes next.

Contact us today to schedule your Divorce Preview and take the first step toward clarity.