Rediscovering Your Core Value After Divorce: A Journey of Self-Discovery

After my own divorce, I found myself at a crossroads. My identity, so long intertwined with my role as a wife, needed redefinition.

It was during this time that I realized the power of identifying my core value.

Recent studies in positive psychology highlight the significance of this process. Individuals who align their lives with their core values after a major life transition like divorce, often experience greater emotional well-being and life satisfaction.

Actionable steps:

1. Acknowledge that your values may have shifted post-divorce
2. Give yourself permission to explore who you are now, separate from your former roles
3. Understand that identifying your core value is a process, not an overnight revelation

The Process of Uncovering Your Core Value

To find my core value, I embarked on a journey of self-reflection. I revisited moments in my life where I felt most alive and authentic, both before and after my marriage.

Interestingly, psychological research suggests that reflecting on these peak experiences can be a powerful tool for uncovering our core values. This process not only helps in value identification but also contributes to increased overall life satisfaction.

Actionable steps:

1. Set aside quiet time for self-reflection
2. Journal about times when you felt most fulfilled and authentic
3. List the values that were present in those moments (e.g., freedom, creativity, connection)
4. Look for patterns or recurring themes in your reflections

Distilling Your Core Value

After extensive reflection, I realized that my core value was 'growth.' This realization became my guiding light, informing my decisions in both my personal and professional life post-divorce.

Psychological studies have shown that having a single, clearly defined core value can act as a powerful decision-making tool. It can simplify choices and reduce stress, especially during major life challenges, like divorce.

Actionable steps:

1. Review your list of values and group similar ones together
2. For each group, ask yourself: "Why is this important to me?"
3. Continue asking "why" until you reach a fundamental reason
4. This fundamental reason is likely your core value

Living Your Core Value

Once I identified 'growth' as my core value, I made decisions that aligned with it. This led me to pursue new career opportunities and personal development initiatives that I previously overlooked.

This approach is backed by research in the field of personal development. Studies have consistently shown that individuals who make decisions aligned with their core values report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower levels of stress.

Actionable steps:

1. Write your core value on a card and keep it visible
2. Before making decisions, ask yourself if they align with your core value
3. Set goals that honor and express your core value
4. Regularly reflect on how you're living your core value and adjust as needed

Conclusion

Discovering your core value after divorce is not just about self-reflection—it's about charting a new course for your life. This process, while challenging, can be incredibly rewarding. Your core value becomes your North Star, guiding you through the uncharted waters of your new life.

Remember, this journey is unique to you. Embrace it with courage and openness, and you may find that this period of rediscovery leads to a more authentic and fulfilling life than you ever imagined possible.

"The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity. The fears are paper tigers. You can do anything you decide to do." - Amelia Earhart

Licia Thompson

PS: If you're a midlife professional navigating life after divorce or a breakup and want guidance on uncovering your core value, message me on LinkedIn. Let's work together to chart your new course so you can start the new year with clarity, balance, and heart-led passion !

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