Once your family mediation is over and your divorce is finalised, you might be thinking, what next? If you’re not sure how to move forward after mediation, here are some key ways to move forward after mediation from our Perth family dispute resolution specialist, Ian Shann.

Allow Yourself To Process Everything

Don’t think that as soon as you’ve signed on the dotted line, that you’ll be able to move on happily.

Yes it will feel like a weight has lifted from your shoulders, but there will undoubtedly be emotions and practical considerations you’ll need to still work through.

Give yourself time to process everything that has happened – and don’t beat yourself up about it.

Put Agreed Changes In Place

If there are agreements you’ve made during your divorce mediation, make sure they are implemented as soon as possible in accordance with those agreements.

This will help you stick to the agreements and get into new routines and habits, which can help you with moving on.

Be Patient

Be patient. With yourself, your children, your ex, and with your family and friends.

It’s going to be a big change for everyone involved and they won’t always understand your feelings and reactions. Sometimes you may not even understand how you feel!

Be kind to yourself, look after yourself, and importantly, make time for yourself to do the things you want to do. Having an outlet, whether it’s exercise, seeing friends, or relaxation, will help you regroup and focus on moving on in a healthy way.

Reflect On What You’ve Learned

As with all life lessons, take time to reflect on what lessons you have learned throughout your divorce. Not just what you’ve learned about life, but what you’ve learned about other people and above all, yourself.

Use Your Support Network 

Form a support network and don’t be afraid to use it! Ask for help when you need it, especially in the early days as you get used to being single or a single parent.

Find Your Own Rhythm

Routines are a great way to move on, as they can help you feel more settled and secure if particular things are happening on a regular basis.

Work out your school run routine, what days you’ll be with the kids, what days you’ll be on your own, and what you’ll be doing with your time.

Try Something New

Have you always wanted to try something new? Well then, what are you waiting for?

Go and book that F45 class, get your scuba diving license or book that weekend away that you’ve dreamed about for years!

Get Counselling

If you need to talk to someone, consider getting counselling to help you move forward after mediation.

Friends and family are great, but there comes a point where they either don’t want to hear about it anymore or they just don’t have the skills and knowledge to be able to help you effectively.

Look To The Future

Stop looking backand start looking forward. Focus on what’s important to you right now, where you want to be and how you’re going to get there.

Looking to the future is one of the best ways to move forward after divorce or separation.

If you’re going through a separation or divorce, and want to make sure you can move on quickly and amicably, talk to our family dispute resolution specialist in Perth, Ian Shann.

Get in touch with us online or call Ian on 0418 928 448 for an obligation-free and confidential chat.