Life After Divorce: 21 Inspiring Quotes to Help You Move Forward

Going through a divorce is hard, but the transition doesn't end when the divorce is settled and the papers are signed. The negotiations are over, but there are still many changes to face. I don't know about you, but it took me years to process this major life change.

When you begin your post-divorce chapter, sometimes you need a reminder that you are amazing and you can get through this. Here are 21 quotes to remind you of just that. 

21 Inspiring Quotes for Life After Divorce 

“Accept yourself, love yourself, and keep moving forward. If you want to fly, you have to give up what weighs you down.” – Roy T. Bennett

This quote encourages people going through a divorce to focus on self-acceptance and self-love to move forward. Divorce can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it also provides an opportunity for growth and transformation. The quote suggests that by letting go of the things that weigh us down, such as negative emotions, we can find the strength to continue on our journey while embracing all of our experiences along the way. This is a powerful reminder for those navigating their next chapter that they have the power to find joy and contentment despite their current circumstances.

If you find yourself feeling helpless, consider reaching out to a divorce coach for support.

“Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.” – Michelle Obama

The quote from Michelle Obama encourages people going through a divorce to remain hopeful and empowered. The post-divorce transition can be difficult, but it is important to focus on the future with determination and optimism. It is also essential to not let fear take control of one's life; by accepting the situation and understanding its implications, it is possible to move forward in a positive way.

"When we deny our stories, They define us. When we own our stories, we get to write the ending." – Brené Brown 

Brené Brown's quote emphasizes the importance of owning our stories in order to create a positive outlook after a tumultuous time. Having the courage to embrace the changes allows us to have control over how our story ends, an important part of the healing process and a true act of self care.

"Throw us an obstacle, and we grow stronger." – Brad Henry

Brad Henry's quote speaks to the resilience of people who have gone through a divorce and how they can come out stronger on the other side. Despite the obstacles that arise during and after a divorce, such as financial difficulties, emotional distress, and court hearings, it is possible to use these struggles as lessons for growth and become a stronger person in the end.

“I have not ceased being fearful, but I have ceased to let fear control me.” – Erica Jong 

This quote by Erica Jong reflects on fear. It's common to struggle with fear regarding your post-divorce life. The quote emphasizes the importance of not allowing fear to dictate one's decisions and instead taking control of one's own life. The quote encourages individuals to not be overwhelmed by fear when facing difficult situations such as a divorce but instead strive for strength and resilience in order to move forward.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” – Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's quote encourages one to live life with purpose and passion despite difficult times, such as during a divorce. It also suggests that one should focus on the positives of life and not simply survive - but to live it with passion, compassion, humor, and style. The message is one of resilience and strength in spite of adversity.

“Divorce isn’t such a tragedy. A tragedy’s staying in an unhappy marriage, teaching your children the wrong things about love. Nobody ever died of divorce.” – Jennifer Weiner

Jennifer Weiner's quote about divorce implies that staying in an unhappy marriage is far more damaging than getting a divorce. She suggests that the true tragedy would be teaching children the wrong values and lessons about love when they are exposed to an unhappy marriage. According to Weiner, no one has ever died from divorcing, but remaining in an unhealthy relationship can have serious consequences.

"Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future." – Robert H. Schuller 

This quote speaks to the importance of looking forward and maintaining a positive outlook on life, especially in times of difficulty. Divorce can take a toll on one's mental health, but this quote serves as a reminder that positivity should be harnessed in order to move forward in life.

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

This quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson can be connected to divorce in the sense that it emphasizes the importance of self-esteem. Going through a divorce can be difficult and emotionally draining, but having healthy self-esteem can help an individual stay strong and find the courage to move forward with a new life chapter. Maintaining healthy levels of self-esteem is also important for successful co-parenting in the aftermath of a divorce.

“The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Divorce often entails a great deal of hurt, anger, and bitterness. It can be difficult to forgive the other person in such a painful situation. However, forgiving one's former partner can create a sense of well-being and peace for both parties involved; this is an attribute of the strong, as Mahatma Gandhi suggested.

"Owning your own story and loving yourself through the process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do." – Brené Brown

This quote resonates deeply with the journey of life after divorce. It speaks to the courage needed to accept and understand our personal experiences, including the challenging chapters like divorce. This process involves not just acknowledging the reality of our past but also embracing self-love and compassion as we move forward. Brown reminds us that navigating this path, with all its emotional complexities, is a profound act of bravery and a crucial step toward healing and growth.

"There was never a night or a problem that could defeat sunrise or hope." – Bernard Williams

In the aftermath of a divorce, it can often feel like we are trapped in an endless night full of challenges and uncertainties. Bernard Williams' quote serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and hope that each new day brings. It suggests that no matter how difficult or insurmountable our problems may seem in the darkness of a tough period, like a divorce, there is always the promise of a new beginning with each sunrise. This quote inspires us to hold onto hope and look forward to brighter days ahead, emphasizing the power of time and perspective in healing and overcoming life's hurdles.

“Letting go doesn’t mean that you don’t care about someone anymore. It’s just realizing that the only person you really have control over is yourself.” – Deborah Reber

Deborah Reber's insightful words resonate deeply with those who have experienced a divorce. This quote illuminates the often misunderstood concept of letting go. It's not about indifference or forgetting, but about acknowledging that our sphere of control is limited to our own actions and responses. Particularly relevant in the context of a divorce, it reminds us that moving on is not a sign of diminished care, but a step towards personal empowerment and self-care. It's about focusing on our personal growth and well-being, understanding that this is where our true power lies.

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” – Lena Horne 

Lena Horne's quote captures a crucial aspect of navigating life after divorce. The 'load' in this context symbolizes the challenges and emotional burdens that come with ending a marriage. Her words suggest that the weight of this experience doesn't inherently have to overwhelm us; rather, it's how we choose to handle these challenges that determines our journey through them. This quote encourages those recovering from divorce to find healthier, more constructive ways to carry their emotional burdens, perhaps through seeking support, practicing self-care, or adopting a positive outlook. It's a reminder that our resilience and attitude play a significant role in overcoming life’s trials.

“The most beautiful people I’ve known are those who have known trials, have known struggles, have known loss, and have found their way out of the depths.” – Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's quote speaks to the transformative journey of individuals who have experienced a divorce. It suggests that there's a unique depth and beauty in those who have faced significant life trials like the end of a marriage and have emerged stronger. This perspective honors the resilience and growth that come from overcoming difficult experiences, highlighting that such challenges can lead to increased empathy, strength, and a more profound appreciation of life.

“Tough times never last but tough people do.” – Robert H. Schuller

This quote by Robert H. Schuller speaks volumes about the resilience required in the face of life’s challenges, such as those experienced during and after a divorce. It’s a reminder that while the period of difficulty might seem unending, it is, in fact, temporary. What endures, however, is the strength and resilience we build in ourselves. This message is particularly resonant for anyone navigating the aftermath of a divorce, emphasizing that while this tough time will pass, the strength you gain from enduring it will remain with you, helping you to face future challenges with greater fortitude.

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” – Christopher Reeve 

“Nobody can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

This powerful statement by Eleanor Roosevelt is particularly meaningful for those rebuilding their lives after a divorce. It underscores the importance of self-empowerment and personal agency. The quote implies that our self-worth and dignity are not dictated by others or by challenging circumstances, such as the end of a marriage. Instead, it is within our power to refuse to accept any perception that diminishes our value. For anyone navigating the emotional complexities of divorce, this is a reminder to maintain control over their self-esteem and to not let external judgments dictate their sense of self-worth.

“Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” – Marilyn Monroe

Marilyn Monroe's words offer a perspective of hope and optimism, particularly relevant to those going through a divorce. This quote suggests that while the end of a marriage can be seen as something falling apart, it may also be the beginning of a better phase in life. It encourages individuals to view their divorce not just as an end, but as a necessary step for new and potentially more fulfilling experiences to come into their lives. For anyone facing the uncertainty and pain of a divorce, this is a reminder that such challenging times often pave the way for positive changes and new beginnings.

“Freeing yourself was one thing, claiming ownership of that freed self was another.” – Toni Morrison

Toni Morrison's quote reflects the two-step process in the aftermath of a divorce. First is the act of moving on from the marriage, which is freeing yourself. The second, more profound step is embracing and taking charge of your new, independent life. It’s a reminder that true empowerment post-divorce isn't just about leaving an unhappy situation, but about actively shaping and owning your new journey.

"Love is the great miracle cure. Loving ourselves works miracles in our lives." – Louise Hay  

Louise Hay's quote emphasizes the transformative power of self-love, especially in times of personal upheaval like after a divorce. It suggests that while external love is significant, the act of loving ourselves is crucial for healing and growth. This quote encourages those who are recovering from the end of a marriage to focus on nurturing self-love, as it can lead to profound positive changes in their lives. It's a reminder that the foundation of our well-being and happiness starts with how we treat and perceive ourselves.

Are there other quotes that have inspired you? Share them in the comments. 

Related posts:

Tips for Rapidly Rebuilding Your Finances After a Divorce or Separation

Your First Christmas After Divorce

6 Survival Tips for Dealing With Divorce Over the Holidays

About Intentional Divorce Solutions

At Intentional Divorce Solutions, we're committed to guiding individuals through the complexities of divorce with an approach centered on empowered choices and respectful outcomes. Our team provides comprehensive support and expertise in several key areas:

• Divorce Financial Planning and Analysis: Providing in-depth financial insights and strategies for a secure future post-divorce.
• Divorce Mediation: Facilitating respectful and balanced negotiations to reach mutually beneficial resolutions.
• Divorce Coaching: Offering personalized support and guidance to help you navigate through emotional and practical challenges of divorce.
• Divorce Support Groups: Creating a space for sharing experiences and finding strength in community support.

Please Note: We focus on providing support and solutions in various aspects of divorce. However, we are not attorneys and do not offer legal advice.

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