When you are divorced not every day is a happy one. In fact, some days are just plain hard! Especially in the beginning, it can be difficult not to let your children see how much you are hurting, how much you just don’t want to get out of bed in the morning. They are likely going through their own set of emotions that they are trying to sort out. If they see you moping around it only gives them one more thing to worry about. You have to be so careful about how much you let them see. Sometimes you’re better off faking it. Easier said than done, I know, but it makes a big difference for both of you.
One of the easiest ways to fake it is by going out and doing things with your children that get your mind off of it. Take them for a trip to the zoo or let them pick out a few books from the library. Just get out and do something. The more time you spend sitting at home, the more time you have to think about your less than ideal situation. Even if it’s just a trip to the grocery store, make an effort to get out of the house each day.
Smile, even if you don’t feel much like smiling. Your children need to see that even though you are sad, you can still find joy in things. Set the example for them. Being divorced stinks; your ex may be causing you a lot of grief, you may be feeling frustrated and angry at life, but there are still good things in your life. They are sitting in the other room fighting over the TV remote and they love you more than anything in the world. You are their mother and they need you to be strong for them. They need your example, so smile. You need it as much as they do.