Getting started

Try these tips for less stress and more peace as you move forward through the divorce process.

• Educate yourself.

  Learn how divorce works in your province. Go to www.canada.ca/family-law to learn more about resources available in Canada. Research legal aid organizations. Ask for advice from trusted friends who've been through a divorce.

• Have a plan.

  Start by making a to-do list that covers areas like finances, homes, boundaries, and children. Break down the areas into small steps.

• Consider mediation.

  For some couples, mediation can be more peaceful and lead to better communication than when lawyers are used. Plus, it can be cheaper, quicker, and less stressful.

• Put your children first (if you have children).

  This can be hard. But your kids will do better if you keep the focus on what's best for them.

• Communicate and co-operate.

  Do your best not to say bad things about each other. Talk when you're calm and use notes. If things get heated, call a "time-out."

• Let the relationship change.

  Let go of old patterns. Agree to disagree. And keep the focus on what's really important.

• Take care of you.

  Be kind to yourself. Pay attention to the things that bring you joy and do more of those things.