Letting Go of the Old Script

For years, your holiday traditions may have revolved around a shared household, a partner, and a rhythm that felt familiar. Divorce disrupts that script. Suddenly, you're faced with questions like: Will the kids be with me this year? Should I still host? What do I do on Christmas morning if I'm alone?

It’s natural to mourn the loss of what was. But it’s also an opportunity to gently release expectations and begin crafting a new narrative—one that reflects who you are now and what brings you joy.

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Sharing Time with Grown Children

Adult children often have their own families, partners, and obligations. Post-divorce, the time you spend with them may feel more fragmented. You might not get Christmas Eve and Christmas Day anymore. That can sting.

The key is to shift from ownership of time to connection. Whether it’s brunch on the 23rd, a video call on the 25th, or a quiet dinner on New Year’s Eve, what matters is the quality of the interaction, not the date on the calendar.

Open communication helps. Let your children know you’re navigating new emotional terrain and that their presence—whenever it happens—is meaningful. At the same time, give them space to manage their own holiday dynamics without guilt or pressure.

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Creating New Traditions

One of the most empowering steps you can take is to create new traditions that reflect your current life. This might mean:

· Hosting a “Christmas with Friends” dinner for other women in similar situations.

· Volunteering on Christmas Day to shift focus from loss to service.

· Taking a solo trip or retreat to recharge and reflect.

· Starting a new ritual, like writing a letter to yourself each year or gifting yourself something symbolic.

New traditions don’t erase the old ones—they simply make room for growth. They’re a way of saying, I’m still here, and I’m still celebrating life.

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Managing the Financial Shift

Divorce often brings changes—not always in the form of financial hardship, but in how you think about and manage your wealth. The holidays can be a natural time to reflect on these shifts. You may find yourself asking: What do I truly want to invest in now? How do I align my resources with the life I’m creating?

Consider:

· Supporting experiences that foster connection and meaning.

· Funding traditions or travel that reflect your new chapter.

· Exploring philanthropic opportunities that resonate with your values.

Financial empowerment is part of your post-divorce identity. It’s not about cutting back—it’s about clarity and confidence in how your wealth supports your goals. This is where working with a financial advisor can make a world of difference. Whether now or in the new year, having someone who understands what you’re going through—someone who has walked a similar path—can help you feel supported as you make decisions that reflect your vision for the future. At Viner & Selig Wealth Management, we know firsthand how valuable that understanding can be.

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Embracing Solitude Without Shame

Perhaps the hardest part of the first post-divorce Christmas is the possibility of being alone. Society often paints solitude during the holidays as something to be pitied. But solitude can also be sacred.

If you find yourself alone on Christmas Day, consider reframing it as a day of rest, reflection, and self-care. Light a candle. Cook something special just for you. Watch your favourite movie. Journal. Go for a walk in nature.

You’re not “left out”—you’re choosing to honour yourself in a new way.

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Seeking Support and Connection

You don’t have to navigate this season alone. Reach out to friends, support groups, or a therapist if the emotions feel overwhelming. Many women find strength in connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of post-divorce holidays.

Online communities, local meetups, and even social media can be spaces to share stories, ideas, and encouragement. You might be surprised how many women are quietly going through the same thing. And just as emotional support matters, so does financial guidance. A trusted advisor can help you plan for the holidays and beyond, ensuring your financial decisions reflect your new life and goals.

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Final Thoughts

Your first Christmas as a divorced woman with grown children is not just a holiday—it’s a milestone. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where you get to decide what matters, what heals, and what brings joy.

It’s okay to feel sad. It’s okay to feel hopeful. And it’s more than okay to celebrate in a way that’s entirely your own.

If you’re feeling uncertain about the financial side of this transition, consider reaching out to us - we truly understand your journey. Having that kind of support—someone who gets it—can make this season and the year ahead feel less overwhelming and more empowering.

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This is a general source of information only. It is not intended to provide personalized tax, legal or investment advice, and is not intended as a solicitation to purchase securities. Viner & Selig Wealth Management is solely responsible for its content.

For more information on this topic or any other financial matter, please contact an IG Wealth Management Advisor.