Braving Valentine's Day: Four EssentialTips to Surviving the Holiday

February 14th marks a day that symbolizes love all over the materialized world. Or, if you are in the midst of a painful divorce, this couple-oriented "Hallmark holiday" can feel like a dreaded event, painfully at odds with what you are experiencing in your life at the moment. Despite whether you choose to shun Valentine's Day or long for years long past, it is important to recognize this day as one of growth and potential for the future.  By keeping in mind our four simple steps, you can turn this Valentine's Day into an encouraging, transformative experience.

1. Value the power of change, and the opportunity that lies in your future. Valentine's Day does not have to be an isolating experience, despite all of those cheesy television advertisements selling romantic escapes and chocolate hearts. This is the most important time to think positively, and remember that this is the the first Valentine's Day of your bright new future! You have overcome the most painful part of divorce, and this Valentine's Day should symbolize your emotional strength, acceptance, and willingness to put your best foot forward.
2. Learn from your experience. Divorce is painfully draining, both physically and emotionally. However, oftentimes it is the way in which we react to even the worst of life experiences that teach us the most about our inner strength and resilience. Apply this deeper understanding in other areas of your life to better your relationships in the future.
3. Make time for YOU this week. Time runs sparingly between work obligations, managing your family's multiple schedules, and trying to adapt to any changes the divorce may have created. It is important to recognize your need for time to yourself, in order to recognize and understand your new identity, and most importantly, embrace it.
4. Accept that change is inevitable, and good. Divorce is a major emotional transformation, and because of this experience you will learn to live a happier, more  fulfilled life. From our failures, we are able to decipher what we truly want from life: whether it be a new career, traveling, or to take that cooking class you've been thinking about, now is your time to take the reigns and embrace your new identity.