Life After Divorce: 9 Things You Can Finally Do Now That You’re Single Again

By Brie Gatchalian

Ugh, you say. You’re getting divorced or it has already happened. It doesn’t sound like much fun to the average person, but under all of that frustration and sadness that you might be feeling, there are some positives. Don’t believe me? Read on for 9 things that you can finally do now that you’re single again…

1. Redecorate
One good thing that might’ve come out of your divorce is the ability to redecorate your home or move somewhere new. Starting fresh is a great way to renew your sense of self along with your environment. When you’re one-half of a couple, you have to compromise on furnishings. Now that you’re on your own, take redecorating on like it’s a new hobby–be as creative as you want and express yourself through your new digs.

2. Turn Heads
When you’ve got a spouse, sometimes it might not be such a good idea to wear that mini or that low-cut top if you’re not out with your hubby. Now that you’re back to square one, flaunt what you’ve got!

3. Date Someone Younger/Hotter/Better
And who knows, you might just find someone younger, hotter and/or better as you turn those heads. You know what they say: when one door closes, another one opens. So, seize the new being-single opportunity as a way to meet new people and potentially an awesome man.

4. Have a Fling
If you’re not ready for a new relationship, there’s no harm in having a fun fling. Shhh–we won’t tell anyone. A “fluffer” (which is the rebound guy you date who you know there’s no future with, but you have so much fun with him, so why not) might be just what you need to get over your ex. And who knows, maybe that “fluffer” will transform into love? Anything can happen.

5. Splurge on an Expensive Handbag
Remember the days of you being afraid to bring those shopping bags into the house out of fear of a lecture from your other half about spending too much money on frivolous items? (Never mind that he splurged all of the time on pricy gadgets!) Now, you can blow a whole paycheck (maybe?) on a handbag or even a pair of shoes. You’re the only boss now!

6. Go on Vacation Solo
There’s something fabulous about going on vacation solo. By doing so, you really will get a chance to relax. You’ll be doing things on your own–which could be a little scary, sure–but you’ll be able to call the shots. You decide where you’re going to go, what you’re going to do, and when you’re going to do it. How awesome is that?! And who knows, maybe you’ll make some friends along the way. And if you’re too afraid to really do it solo, then consider a singles-only cruise or all-inclusive resort.

7. Watch Whatever You Want
No one will be fighting you for the remote control anymore. Watch as many guilt-full TV shows as you want. From bad episodes of The Bachelor to reruns of Beverly Hills 90210, you won’t have to fight someone on Sunday and Monday night football nights anymore. How liberating!

8. Be Swept Off Your Feet
At the end of the day, although you did have a failed relationship, that doesn’t mean your moment has passed. I truly believe there’s a soulmate for everyone, and if your ex wasn’t the one you’re meant to be with, then think of the possibilities. He’s still out there! How exciting! You’ll get to date again, and before you know it, that special guy will sweep you off your feet. So although you’ve already “been there and done that,” you get to try again–which is such a great thing to look forward to!

9. Find Yourself Again
But before you find your next love, take the opportunity to find yourself. Now that you’re alone again, it’s time to rediscover who you are, what you want and what you love to do. A divorce doesn’t just have to mean an ending to a relationship. A divorce also means the start of new ones–with a potential new love and yourself!