Thinking About Divorce in the New Year? You Need to Prepare Now.

If you’re secretly thinking, “Maybe I’ll make a change after the holidays,” you’re not alone.

January has long been known as “Divorce Month” — when Google searches for divorce lawyers and separation spike across the country. (Even though more people actually file in March!) But what most women don’t realize is that the smart ones start preparing months before they make the move.

Because divorce isn’t just an emotional decision.
It’s a strategic one.

Why Now Is the Time to Get Ready

The holidays can be the final straw for many women — the tension, the pretending the exhaustion of keeping up appearances. But once the decorations come down and the calendar flips, you don’t want to be scrambling to understand your finances, your legal options or your next steps.


Here’s what you can start doing now to position yourself for a strong start in 2026:

Start gathering your financial documents — tax returns, bank statements, mortgage info, investment accounts, insurance policies, pay stubs. Save them somewhere safe (and private).

If your spouse handles the money, pay attention. Notice what accounts exist, where money moves, and any sudden changes. This is your time to become the CEO of your divorce (my motto) — not the assistant.

If you don’t already have one, open a checking and savings account in your name only. Establishing financial independence early gives you freedom — and safety. You can also apply for a credit card in your name to build or strengthen your individual credit.

Where would you go if you needed to leave tomorrow? What would you need to bring? These aren’t dramatic questions — they’re protective ones. Start thinking about logistics, living arrangements and who’s in your support circle.

The best thing you can do is work with a divorce coach to plan safely and strategically. A coach can also help you put together your team – including an attorney, financial expert and others. If you’re dealing with abuse, be sure the coach is familiar with coercive control.

Change passwords. Use two-factor authentication. Get a secure email that your spouse doesn’t know about. Technology is often the first place control or surveillance shows up. Don’t wait until it’s a crisis to take action.

Maybe the hardest — and most important — step. Stop waiting for the perfect time. It doesn’t exist. There will always be birthdays, holidays or family events. What matters is that you finally decide you deserve peace more than you fear change.

A New Year — and a New Life

If you’re quietly telling yourself, “Next year will be different,” let it be.
But don’t wait until January 1 to start taking control of your future. The women who thrive after divorce are the ones who plan before they leap.

Now is your moment to get informed, get organized and get ready.
So when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, you’re not just making a resolution — you’re making a plan for your freedom.

Want a Roadmap?

My Proactive Playbook for Divorce was built exactly for this moment — with customizable charts to help women protect themselves, get clear and start the process strategically. When you purchase the $37 Playbook you receive a $250 discount on my full Divorce Decoded course which has video modules educating you on every aspect of divorce. (So, for $184 you get both!) Many women tell me they love the ability to learn in secret while they’re planning their next move. 

Because knowledge isn’t just power. It’s peace.