Surviving Divorce
Your Roadmap Through the Emotional and Financial Maze
by Victoria Perrett (Perigee, $15.95 paper)
In one of the first titles in a self-help/advice series called “52 Brilliant Ideas,” psychotherapist Victoria Perrett shares strategies to survive the trauma and hurt of divorce, before, during and after this sometimes long and challenging process.
1. Feeling awkward about socializing post-divorce? Be choosy about the events you attend, and bring a friend.
2. If you want to remain friends with your ex, you must respect each other. Stick to some rules, such as no badmouthing each other to the kids and no rehashing old conflicts from your marriage.
3. Don’t be a “divorce bore” on a date. If you complain incessantly about your ex, your date probably won’t be eager to see you again.
4. Remarry because you truly love the person, not because you’re lonely, broke or need a parent for your kids.
5. If you’re a young wife marrying an older guy and your stepson has a crush on you (a common problem, according to the author), do not confront your stepson. If the crush doesn’t fade in about a month, ask your husband to talk with his son.
