Just as every relationships is different, no two divorces are identical. Perhaps your spouse ran off with your best friend, blew all of your retirement savings at the race track, or you simply grew up and apart. No matter how your marriage ended or why, there's a few things you should know to prepare you for the journey ahead.

You're going to feel it physically.
Divorce is stressful and almost always affects people physically. Don't be surprised if you experience anxiety, depression, insomnia, nausea, loss of appetite, sudden weight loss or weight gain, or a combination of any of the above. Just remember to take care of yourself and stay away from unhealthy food and too much alcohol.

It takes time to pick up the pieces.
Even if you score a good divorce settlement, it doesn't mean that you'll move on quickly. Divorce is notorious for being stressful, even when it's for the best. Give yourself at least a year to feel like yourself and be in the best spirits again.

You may not want to jump back into the dating scene right away.
Did you and your ex fight a lot? Did one of you have an affair? Is it hard to be in the same room together? Even if you didn't end things on the best of terms, it doesn't mean that you'll have the energy or desire to jump back into the dating scene right away. It may take time, trust yourself; you'll know when you're ready.

There will be good days and bad days.
One minute you may be thrilled that you can watch whatever TV shows you want, control your schedule, parent on your own terms, and call all the shots. But the next moment you may sorely miss "being married" and that's okay. There will be good days and bad days but eventually the wounds will heal and you can be excited about the future.

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