Divorce can challenge the essence of our identity as we move from married life to single life. Sometimes we don’t even recognize ourselves anymore. If you’re feeling a little lost, here are five ways to rediscover yourself and reclaim your happiness.
1) Recapture the Joy of Your Youth.
Think back to your childhood. What did you enjoy doing? Is there an adult version of that? Take a moment to revisit all the positive experiences of your youth. What events did you like attending? What hobbies did you have? What types of activities did you participate in? What special interests did you explore? What holidays, traditions and celebrations did you most look forward to? Can you re-create them now as an adult? If you were a high school soccer star, think about joining an adult soccer league. Was art always your favorite subject in school? Sign up for a painting class. Did you love playing outside? Find activities to do in the fresh air like hiking or biking. What brought us joy as a child can be rekindled in our adult lives.
2) Get Out the Old Photo Albums.
Go back in time and reminisce with old photo albums. Through pictures, you can revisit the events in your life that have made you uniquely you! Seeing images of ourselves over the years, helps us connect with our life’s journey. What revelations will unfold as you turn the pages? As we become the observers of our own lives, we will get to know ourselves on another level.
3) Talk to Your Loved Ones.
Survey your friends and family. If you are feeling lost or sad, your loved ones are always good for reminding you of how special you are. Ask them questions. What was I like as a kid? What do you think I’m good at? What do you consider my best traits? What do you like about me? What are three words you would use to describe me? What do you think makes me happy? If I were an animal, what would I be and why? If I were a color, a food, a tree, a car, etc. We can often find ourselves by reconnecting with the people who know us best.
4) Take Inventory of Your Values.
What standards do you live by? What are your core morals and values? Really think about this, then make a list of all your values. Are you behaving consistently with your values? If you value friendship, are you actively cultivating and nurturing your relationships? If you value spirituality, are you taking time out to worship and pray and connect with your higher power? If you value success, are you working hard toward your goals? If you value good health, are you living a fit lifestyle? An overall sense of fulfillment and calmness is achieved when we live in accordance with our values and beliefs.
5) Unlock Your Dreams.
What did you dream about as a child? How have those dreams changed over the years? Which dreams did you fulfill? What are your dreams now? What do you want for your future? What excites you? What do you look forward to? What kind of life would you like to create for yourself? Defining our dreams gives us something to strive for and something to look forward to. The human spirit is lifted by purpose and progress.