We split back in October, but we've been nesting in the same house for the kids' sake. It’s been an absolute nightmare.

I was looking over my projected budget for when I finally move out into a rental. Between child support, joint debt from 11 years of marriage, and everyday inflation, my disposable income is getting cut by about 60%. I went from not worrying about grocery bills to realizing I have to cut every subscription just to keep my head above water.

I’m using Mahoney Richmond Thurston to make sure I don't get completely cleaned out on the house equity side, but the day-to-day survival numbers still look brutal.

How did you guys adjust to the massive downshift in your lifestyle right after? Did you take on side gigs, or just accept that the next couple of years are going to be a financial grind?