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Starting over after a divorce or separation may seem like the end of the world. It is hard enough to begin life anew but the challenges of single parenting are also thrown in the mix. As hard as it may seem, there is nothing to it but to do it. That may seem easier said than done, but it really gets simpler as the days go by. The thing to keep in mind is that there was life before your ex, and there will be life after.

The most important thing is to form a strong support system, whether it be friends, family, or both. You can also join a support group for single parents or those with common interests as you. Find people you can turn to and talk to them. Get all the words and thoughts out and start working towards feeling better. Don't be scared to ask for help if you need it. Sometimes, no matter how bad we want to, we can not always do it alone.

Begin to rebuild your life. Take time to grieve and then work towards moving on. Don't dwell on the past. Focus on making life in the here and now. Set up housekeeping the way you want. Think of this as a way to decorate things without worrying what your partner thinks. If you are able to, find a job so that you can financially support your family. Do what you have to in order to take care of your family.

Start establishing routines, traditions, and schedules. Maintain control of the situation. Think about your kids and don't neglect your responsibilities as a parent. Continue to make your child follow the rules, and don't let them play on your emotions to get away with what they normally wouldn't. Stay in charge! If your child is old enough, assign chores. Let them help you take care of the house, too.

Develop new hobbies and do things to take your mind off the pain of the past. Find new ways to help yourself relax. Get involved with your child's activities. You could be a coach, a classroom parent, or help tell stories at the local library. Go out and do things. Learn to be active again.

Take it one day at a time and know that you can do it. Each passing day is another day farther from the past. Though it is sometimes difficult to put the past behind us, that is the best place for it. Work on building a future with your child. Continue to maintain a good relationship with them. Stay upbeat and remember that life goes on. Before you know it, a year will have come and gone and you will barely remember how hard you once though things were going to be.

Learn more about this author, Laura Leigh Fields.
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