A Divorce Story: How to Break Up Well with Sarah Catherall

Nov 18, 2024

Join journalist Sarah Catherall, author of 'How to Break Up Well,' as she shares her personal journey through divorce and its aftermath. She dives into the unexpected challenges of separation, the art of discussing divorce with children, and the importance of co-parenting thoughtfully. Sarah reflects on her dating misadventures post-marriage and emphasizes taking things slow when introducing new partners to kids. With valuable insights on personal growth and community support, she proves that breaking up well is indeed possible!

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ANECDOTE

Blindsided by Divorce

Sarah Catherall was blindsided when her husband said "It's over" after years of marriage and growing apart.
They struggled through a difficult period while raising three children amidst renovations and career pressures.

INSIGHT

Growth After Separation

Growth after separation often leads to becoming a stronger, better self.
Returning to the past self is undesirable when the growth journey post-divorce is significant.

ADVICE

Telling Kids About Divorce

Plan to tell children about separation in a calm, unrushed environment without distractions like hunger.
Clearly explain the changes, reassure love for them, and offer separate talks for each child if needed.

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It started with "I do" and ended with "It's over".

I sit down with Sarah Catherall, journalist and author of "How to Break Up Well: Surviving and Thriving After Separation" to talk about her "Chapter 2" and life after separation and divorce. Sarah shares her experiences of navigating the end of her marriage, raising her children, and creating a fulfilling new chapter in her life.

Key Takeaways:

The Reality of Separation:

Sarah discusses the moment her marriage ended and how she coped with the unexpected changes. She reflects on how the pressures of parenting, work, and life contributed to the breakdown of her relationship.

Talking to Children About Divorce:

Practical advice on preparing for and having the conversation with children about separation.

Rebuilding After Divorce:

Tips for maintaining connections with extended family and finding new ways to co-parent effectively.

Dating and Repartnering:

Sarah reflects on her early dating missteps after divorce and what she learned about introducing a new partner to her children.
Advice for taking it slow and respecting your children's feelings during this transition.

Can you Break Up Well? Absolutely you can!

Resources Mentioned: Sarah Catherall's Book: How to Break Up Well: Surviving and Thriving After Separation. Buy in Australia Here. Buy in New Zealand Here.

How to Tell Your Kids You Are Separating Buy Here.

This episode is brought to you by Simple Separation. For a stress-free, transparent approach to navigating separation, book a free consultation with their team today.

Host: Nikki Parkinson, TEDx Speaker, Divorce Doula, Coach and Founder of The Divorce and Separation Hub.

Host: Nikki Parkinson

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Join our Divorce and Separation community HERE.

Watch Nikki's TEDx Talk HERE.

Guest: Sarah Catherall

Connect on Instagram HERE.

Connect on Sarah's Website HERE.

Connect on LinkedIn HERE.

Connect on Sarah's Substack HERE.

Executive Producer and Editor: Tiffany Richmond. You can contact Tiffany via her website and on Instagram @tiff__richmond.