If you are going through a divorce, it could very well impact your professional life.
While it may not be realistic to shield your career from the ramifications of divorce completely, there are ways to mitigate potential damage.
Communicate (selectively)
You don’t have to tell everyone about your divorce, but you might discuss it with your partners or boss. Doing so makes them aware that you may be taking more time off or needing a little more help. It can also help them understand that any lapses you might have are likely unrelated to your commitment to your work or performance capabilities.
That said, depending on your situation, there is no guarantee that a significant life event will excuse egregious oversights.
You should also notify Human Resources. Doing so alerts them to beneficiary changes, potential child support withholdings and updated contact information.
Further, you should avoid making any sudden professional changes. Voluntarily leaving a job, abruptly selling a business or demanding a raise could create both professional and financial repercussions that only create more problems.
Prioritize amicable resolutions
In many cases, the faster and more smoothly you can navigate your divorce, the better. Opting for mediation or collaborative divorce avoids lengthy legal processes and expensive litigation. Not only can this help you outside of work, but it can minimize the amount of time you are out of the office.
Further, it can be easier to divide property in a less disruptive way if you can reach agreements without litigation. Doing so can be especially valuable if you are a business owner.
Recognize your limits
Just about everything can cause stress during divorce, from the legal process and work demands to your emotional health and parenting obligations. No one expects any person to go through all this without help.
For instance, at work, you may be able to reach out to colleagues for support on a project. You can rely on your attorney to manage the legal elements. Talk to family and friends about helping you with babysitting or getting out of the house. And a counselor can be vital for helping you address emotional demands.
If protecting your professional life during divorce is a priority, consider these tips to help you along the way.