When your spouse dies, it’s challenging to think about being social again.
Initially, you’re mourning and taking care of urgent matters. You’re learning to function without your partner to help with household chores and financial issues.
As time progresses, your good days begin to outnumber your bad ones. There is less to do with settling your spouse’s estate and outstanding matters.
There’s finally time for you.
Your support system may be solid and dependable.
But you may also want to start a new circle of friends that understand your loss or provide a fresh start without constantly being reminded of your deceased spouse.
Here are five ideas shared by my clients who have experienced the loss of a spouse.
1- Join a support group for widows/widowers.
Look at groups affiliated with hospitals, religious communities, and local agencies.
Go to different meetings to find one you are comfortable with to share your feelings and concerns.
While you may be ready to move forward, balancing times of sadness with new joys can be challenging.
2- Sign up for a yoga class or other fitness class.
A class will require you to commit regularly.
The benefit of a class is that you can control how much interaction you want with others since exercising is the main focus.
It’s an easy way to become social again without having to engage in long conversations.
3- Find an activity you enjoy and join a group.
Larger cities have more options for a ski club, photography group, or age-specific activity group.
Use MeetUp.com to find groups near your location. If those groups are unavailable in your area, check with your community center or religious organizations.
4- Volunteer for a cause you are passionate about supporting.
Through volunteer events, you’ll meet others who share the same passion.
It’s a great way to give back while building new relationships.
5- Find a part-time job.
Not for the money, but to help you meet new people.
You’ll gradually build relationships with your coworkers while keeping busy with your time.
When you’re ready to be social again after the loss of your spouse, go at your own pace. Don’t let others push you into forming relationships you are not ready to start.
Finding the right social activity for yourself may take several attempts, but keep persevering.
Be patient and learn to enjoy the journey.
(Update to original post from February 26, 2018)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”