Attitudes about searching for career satisfaction have shifted dramatically in the last few decades. A meaningful and viable career path, one that integrates well with family life has gained broad appeal. The clients I see as a collaborative divorce coach and vocational expert share these views. As they engage divorce and career coaching, they become stronger, more flexible and reasonable. Self-confidence increases. The possibility of growing in ways that matter reduces fear and uncertainty about the future and enhances the ability to negotiate in good faith.
A divorcing client who had found her direction recently said, “I feel more settled, like I have something to hang onto, even though everything else in my life is turned upside down. I have something that is giving me hope for my future and my children’s future.”
Collaborative-style vocational experts engage clients beyond the superficial evaluation and report on marketable skills conducted in some traditional divorce cases. These reports can be used to lock people into jobs worked fifteen plus years ago that no longer suit or feel relevant. Perhaps never felt relevant.
An outline of the role played by a vocational expert in collaborative and mediated cases includes:
Divorce coaching and coordination with the team;
Holistic career assessment and support to explore options;
Incorporating the special needs and school schedules of children;
Career and educational plans drawn up to highlight best options, costs, income projections and expected timelines;
Learning the views and opinions of the earning spouse that will influence the settling of spouse’s support and career planning;
Modification proposals where potentially helpful in support of educational and career planning;
Self-employment options considered, which can protect employment for aging adults.
The transformative case, where people emerge with better communication, a good parenting plan and hopeful about what’s to come, is facilitated by both parties feeling some degree of confidence in their future. The energy and focus generated by beginning to discover a purposeful and viable career direction is life changing. It typically leads to higher levels of commitment and discipline when it comes to training, study and/or job search. This benefits the already earning spouse by limiting their financial exposure. It ensures children will be well provided for and have positive role modeling from two working parents.
Finding a meaningful and viable career path brings solace, peace of mind and a positive connection to the future: A place to picture oneself on the other side of divorce.
Originally posted on Bridges Collaborative Divorce Solutions