The holiday season can feel overwhelming when you are in the middle of a divorce or have recently finalized one. Traditions shift, emotions run high, and family dynamics change in ways you may not feel prepared for. While there is no way to make the holidays stress-free, knowing what pitfalls to avoid can help you create a steadier path forward for yourself and your family.
If you’re facing challenges related to divorce this holiday season, reach out to Schumacher Law Group through our online contact form or call (405) 643-4884 today.
Why the Holidays Feel Especially Difficult During Divorce
Divorce already brings a wave of change, but during the holidays, those changes feel sharper. Time that was once shared as a family now looks different. Custody arrangements, financial pressures, and heightened expectations from loved ones can make even simple decisions stressful.
Recognizing these pressures is the first step toward managing them. By understanding what to avoid, you can protect your well-being and help your children feel more secure during this transitional season.
What Not to Do During Divorce in the Holidays
The following are some of the most common mistakes people make during or after divorce around the holidays. Remembering these can help you set healthier boundaries and expectations.
1. Don’t Ignore Court Orders or Parenting Plans
Holiday schedules are often built into custody agreements. Ignoring those details can create conflict with your co-parent and may even have legal consequences. Courts take parenting plans seriously, especially during busy seasons like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Instead, stick to the agreed-upon plan or, if changes are needed, discuss them in advance with your co-parent in writing.
2. Don’t Overspend to “Make Up” for the Divorce
It’s natural to want to give your children a special holiday, but overspending to compensate for divorce can lead to financial strain and set unrealistic expectations.
Focus on meaningful experiences rather than material things. Children often remember the time you spend with them more than the gifts they receive.
3. Don’t Put Children in the Middle
Asking children to choose between parents, carry messages, or share adult-level concerns only increases their stress. The holidays are already emotional for them, and placing them in the middle can deepen the difficulty.
Shield your children from conflict whenever possible so they can focus on celebrating rather than navigating tension.
4. Don’t Compare This Year to the Past
One of the hardest parts of divorce is adjusting to how things “used to be.” Comparing current holidays to traditions of the past can heighten feelings of grief and loss.
Instead, create new traditions—big or small—that reflect your new circumstances. This can be as simple as baking a favorite dessert or hosting a new kind of gathering.
5. Don’t Avoid Support
The holidays can be isolating during divorce. Some people feel they should “tough it out” alone, but this often increases emotional strain.
Reach out to friends, family, or professional counselors who can provide grounding support. Talking through your challenges can help you manage stress and keep perspective.
Practical Tips for a Smoother Holiday
Avoiding pitfalls is important, but there are also proactive steps you can take to make the season easier.
Here are a few simple strategies:
- Plan ahead for travel, custody schedules, and family gatherings.
- Communicate clearly (and calmly) with your co-parent about holiday logistics.
- Set realistic expectations for yourself and your children.
- Give yourself permission to rest and take breaks from holiday chaos.
Even small adjustments can help restore a sense of stability and keep the season from feeling overwhelming.
How Divorce Lawyers in Norman, OK Can Support You
Divorce is not only an emotional process but also a legal one. Custody schedules, parenting plans, and financial agreements often come into sharp focus around the holidays. Having guidance from divorce lawyers in Norman, OK can help you better understand your rights and obligations.
An attorney can:
- Clarify how your parenting plan applies to the holidays.
- Assist with modifications if schedules are unworkable.
- Address disputes quickly to minimize disruption.
- Help you prepare for long-term arrangements that consider holidays and special occasions.
Legal support gives you more confidence that the decisions you make now will support your family’s future.
Moving Forward with Confidence
While the holidays may never look the same after divorce, they can still hold meaning and joy. By avoiding common mistakes, prioritizing your children’s well-being, and building new traditions, you can create a holiday season that feels more manageable and hopeful.
Divorce Lawyers in Norman, OK: Contact Schumacher Law Group Today
If divorce challenges are weighing heavily on you this holiday season, you don’t have to navigate them on your own. Schumacher Law Group provides guidance tailored to your situation, helping you protect your rights while finding workable solutions for your family.
Contact us today through our online contact form or call (405) 643-4884 to connect with divorce lawyers in Norman, OK who can support you during this difficult time.