If you’re preparing to divorce, it can feel like your “to-do” list is growing every day. From getting your financial documents in order to arranging for more daycare for your kids and possibly looking for a new home, it can be overwhelming.
It’s crucial not to neglect how the divorce will affect your job. Whether you’re a grocery clerk or a senior vice president, you may want to believe that your divorce won’t affect your work. However, one way or another, it likely will at some point.
Notify the necessary people
That’s why it’s important to talk with your manager or whomever you report to and anyone else who needs to know (for example, your business partners and your administrative assistant). Human Resources personnel may need to know if things like your address or emergency contact have already changed.
How much you tell people at work is up to you, but unless they’re also a close friend, it’s generally better to leave out the personal details and stick to how you may need their help or support in the coming months. Maybe you’ll need to adjust your schedule on some days to care for your kids. You may have to take some time off for court dates or divorce-related meetings.
Have a plan
Regardless of your position, you’re likely not indispensable. That means the last thing you want to do is jeopardize your job right now. That’s why it’s important to make a plan for how you’ll handle these added demands on your time and emotions and be able to assure those who depend on you at work that your performance won’t suffer. That means limiting contact from your soon-to-be ex and possibly even your attorney during your work hours. The more you can keep the stresses and emotions of your divorce separate, the less likely it is that your work will suffer.
Notifying your boss, as noted, is key. Beyond that, with the exceptions mentioned above, you may not have to tell anyone. If you do, it’s important that you’ve told your boss first. They generally don’t like to hear things second hand.
If you’re not making your divorce public knowledge at work, be sure those you tell know of your wish for privacy. If you have experienced legal guidance, you can more easily manage the changes in your life and schedule and prevent your divorce from affecting your work.