Living A Protective Life And Paving The Road Less Traveled.

This #IAmProtective sponsored post has been compensated by #CollectiveBias, Inc. and its advertiser. As always, my life and opinions are my own. 

It has been quite a year. The heaviest weight was filing divorce papers last April. To which everything was finalized last October. And now nearly 6 months single, I feel like I’m finally catching my breath.

I am blessed but I am tired. Each night finds me relishing the peace that has followed the chaos. But I can’t help wonder what the next 15 years will look like compared to the last.

How time felt infinitesimally slowed, yet now seems to have whirled past is overwhelming. Our arrangement was such that I would continue to stay home with our children. So much of their lifestyle would change, but I wanted that one thing to remain the same. I wanted to protect that.

And as our days find a new normal, I still find there is a lot I want to protect them from. And staying grounded at this point also means giving them the stability of a solid financial foundation. So I work at night and my little hobby blog has become my business. And as my social media accounts grow, I love the prospect of ensuring its continuity.

But what I also depended on was a wealth of advice, support, and friendship. And I implore anyone else facing the same uncertain future to take a deep breath. Then keep these few things in mind as you weather your own storm.

1. Write it down.

One of the first things I did after finalizing my divorce? Was to buy the most colorful and quirky goal planner I could find. I now write down everything I would need to do, think, plan, and want. The world will spin out of control. Leave yourself directions.

2. It takes a village…of single Moms.

Whether its Facebook groups or your local church group. Seek out your friends who have been there and done that. Find where these awesome women are gathering and join them. They will save your sanity. And your kiddos will appreciate finding friends that are going through much of the same.

3. Protect your finances.

First of all. A penny saved is a penny earned. You would be amazed at how resourceful your single Momma self will become. So never think you don’t make enough to save or plan for the future. And the first step is to find a good financial learning center to know your options.

From retirement options to college savings plans. Or simply getting insurance to provide for your kids if you get hurt. Remember, something is better than nothing. So learning about money management is key now.

4. Instagram.

The world will blur. If nothing else, take one picture of your kiddos each day. There are a slew of photo books that can be made from your Instagram account. Or once a month toss your favorite mobile photos into a photo book app. As low as $3 for 100 photos, have it mailed to you. Your scrapbook will thank me later.

5. Have it delivered.

And speaking of getting things mailed. I’m going to say this as simply as I can. Divorce sucks the life, time, and funds right out of you. Seriously…I don’t have time to shop now. I barely have time to breathe now. And honestly, I save money by having staples delivered.

Two things that have saved me the most, are having my groceries delivered and renting new clothes. Yup, nothing like healthy foods in the fridge and a pretty dress on a dismal day. Especially when your divorce is so contested, the Wasband even takes the wireless mouse.

And there you have it. A few simple tips to ensure that you’re protected. Slowly, our world has turned less gray. I’m seeing more color on the horizon and feel excited about a new future.

Life really is what you make it. Blessed be to those that helped me this far. And blessings on those that may travel this highway behind me. You can do it.