Getting a divorce is an emotional roller coaster. The process is overwhelming and upsetting at times. You need to be fully prepared as you go through the process. The best way to navigate a divorce is to prepare. The following are some things you can do to get ready for divorce.

Know What to Expect

To best prepare for divorce, you should know what the process will be like. Take the time to read over the divorce laws in your state so you are aware of your rights. You should also read about child custody laws if you have children.

Be on Your Best Behavior

Although this is an emotional time, you need to keep your behavior in check throughout the process. Take note of your feelings and be careful how you act, at least until your divorce is final. Bad behavior during a divorce can reflect poorly on you and can even cause a judge to change his or her opinion of you. This can ultimately negatively impact your divorce settlement. If you have an outburst in court or on social media, for example, the judge may decide that you are too dangerous to have any custody of your children until you have undergone therapy.

Speaking of social media, your divorce is not the time to vent your anger towards your spouse across all platforms of the internet. Even if you go back and delete it later, things you put online have a way of coming back. If you post something bad about your spouse online, his or her attorney can find it and bring it to the court. Do your best to remain calm during this process. While it may be hard, you need to think about the long-term consequences of your actions and what you want for yourself moving forward.

Speak to Your Children Thoughtfully

When you have children together, divorce is even more difficult. Telling the kids that you are divorcing is one of the hardest things you will do. When you talk to the kids, explain that while your marriage is ending, but that this is not necessarily a bad thing. It is simply a change. Encourage your children to ask questions, and answer them in an age-appropriate manner.

You should tell the children about the divorce as soon as you decide to move forward. If you do not, they could accidentally find out through other means. You do not want that to happen.

If you have any questions about how to navigate your divorce, speak to a family law attorney.