Hello Gentlemen. Something I’m sure we all see in all divorces, from peaceful to contentious, is radical new behavior in our STBX during the “waiting stage.” Among the laundry list of life changes that you have to adjust to, your STBX’s new lifestyle changes can sting as much as the financial barbs, and you must mentally prepare to handle these changes and not allow them to impact YOUR emotions or character.

So what type of behavioral or lifestyle changes have I seen?

  • Within 3 weeks of telling me she is leaving me, STBX got plastic surgery
  • “Sexualizing” her appearance despite 20 years of self-body shaming
  • Took up belly-dancing and began posting videos daily to social media
  • Posting passive-aggressive inspirational quotes on social media
  • Victimizing despite no abuse

While these changes aren’t as severe as jumping into another relationship or going into 100% bitch mode, they will chip away at your ego. Stay strong. In order to process these behavioral changes, it’s important to understand the primary difference in men and women during divorce: men look inward, women look outward. I have been focusing on my career, finances and mental health. She has been focusing on her image. I stay strong.

What are some of the changes you have seen during the divorce waiting period and how do you respond?