Going through a family break-up is a hectic time. When the dust has finally settled, you might find yourself feeling understandably overwhelmed, tied and deflated.
We get it … and are here to help!
A few firm words from within the pages of the world's top-rated self-help books could be just what you need.
So stick on the kettle and curl up with one of these brilliant books to start feeling empowered after divorce or separation.
1. The Power Of Letting Go by John Puriss
The Power of Letting Go by John Purkiss is one of the must-read books after divorce. The author explains the why and how of letting go when you’re stuck in a rut, whether it’s a bad relationship or a dead-end job. Sometimes letting go of attachment is what we need to grow as a person and live the life of our dreams.
Recommended for: Newly separated women or anyone stuck in a rut.
2. Get Divorced, Be Happy by Helen Thorn
We all need a funny friend. If you want a little break from all the crying, definitely add Helen Thorn's Get Divorced, Be Happy to your to-read list of books after divorce. We guarantee you will be laughing your ass off reading stories from her own separation. More than the funny anecdotes, though, the book is also a self-help guide, providing valuable advice and insights on how to love and lift yourself when you're feeling low.
Recommended for: Newly separated women who need a bit (or a lot) of humour
3. Get Out Of Your Own Way by Mark Goulston, M.D.
Sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy. If you are struggling to move forward during this difficult time, this excellent read about overcoming self-defeating behaviour is one of our fave books for after divorce. Mark Goulston teaches you practical self-help tips to beat everything from self-pity to procrastination.
Recommended for: People who are having a hard time getting started.
4. It's Not Supposed To Be This Way by Lysa Tekeurst
If divorce or the end of a relationship is testing your faith, give this book a read. The study guide accompanies a six-video Bible study series to get you through dark times. The writer has experienced her own life-changing losses and shares the lessons she learned on her journey, including finding peace when life turns out not the way you expected it to be.
Recommended for: Religious people going through tough times.
5. Hello Beautiful by Keryl Pesce
Say hello to empowerment in this eye-opening read about breaking free from self-doubt, regret and anxiety. You’ll learn to be okay with not being okay and become more accepting of your true self, flaws and all. You’ll also learn to be more comfortable in your own skin even when people around you are not. Definitely one of our top books for after divorce.
Recommended for: People suffering from low self-esteem and self-doubt post-breakup.
6. Survive And Thrive Through Your Separation by Helen Slater
Legal proceedings are some of the toughest things about separation and divorce. Helen Slater’s practical book gives you everything you need to take the emotion out of the equation and make better decisions. In plain language, she guides you through the entire process, including paperwork, costs, responsibilities and potential outcomes.
Recommended for: Anyone struggling with the legal aspects of separation.
7. When You're Ready, This Is How You Heal by Brianna Wiest
This collection of short essays is perfect if you're on the quest to heal and transform yourself after divorce. When You're Ready, This Is How You Heal by Brianna Wiest is the type of book you don't read quickly; you absorb it. Filled with guidance and advice that will resonate with you, this is one of the best books after divorce to help re-frame your thoughts so you can come out better and stronger.
Recommended for: Anyone on a healing journey and/or undergoing therapy
8. The Kickass Single Mum by Emma Johnson
Looking for books for after divorce that teaches you how to be successfully independent? The Kickass Single Mum is for you. Written by someone who’s been there and survived (the author created the popular blog Wealthysinglemommy.com), this is a complete guide to single motherhood that shows you how to build financial stability and reignite your love life whilst being a kickass single parent.
Recommended for: Women who want to be great parents whilst juggling a career and new relationship.
9. Getting Past Your Breakup by Susan Elliott
Getting over someone doesn’t happen overnight, as anybody who has gone through a breakup knows. Pick up this book if you’re having a hard time moving on. The author will teach how to overcome the pain of divorce through practical steps (starting with no contact with your ex) and other tips to jump-start the healing process so you can be happy again.
Recommended for: People who have difficulty moving on after a breakup.
10. Conscious Uncoupling by Katherine Woodward Thomas
Conscious Uncoupling is one of those life-altering books for after divorce. The author understands how breakups bring out the worst in people, and she gently guides you away from the anger, bitterness and resentment towards peace, healing and wholeness. This book is a bright ray of hope for those who can’t see their way out of the darkness.
Recommended for: The heartbroken who needs a compassionate hand to guide them to peace.
11. You Are Enough by Mandy Hale
Divorce can torpedo your self-esteem like no other life event, making you feel like you are never good enough. This book uncovers the lies the brain tells you when someone rejects you, or you are down in the deepest dumps. It also teaches you how to overcome heartbreak and see yourself as whole and complete just as you are.
Recommended for: Anyone who feels that they are not good enough after the end of a relationship.
12. Untamed by Glennon Doyle
This wonderful and empowering essay collection by Glennon Doyle is the one you’re looking for if you find yourself asking, “Now what?” after the end of a relationship. Do you feel unsettled and not quite yourself? The Untamed will wake up your heart and soul and give you the courage to finally take that scary next step, whether it’s coming out, moving to a new country or quitting an addiction.
Recommended for: Those who need a big push to become their best self.
Summary: Empowering books after divorce and separation
Divorce is a painful and exhausting process that can make you feel like you're at the lowest point in your life. But if you're ready to pick up the pieces and start living again, a good book may just be what you need.
This list has everything you would want from books after divorce - stories, advice, lessons, and validation. Some are like funny friends, some are like the best friend/sister you never had, and some are like your personal handheld therapists. (Of course, we recommend you seek real therapy, too.)
There are books to help you start healing, and there are those that will guide you toward financial stability. Some will even walk you through the actual divorce proceedings.
There's surely a book that meets you wherever you are in this separation process.
Now if you're ready, grab your mug and a box of tissues, tuck yourself in your comfiest blanket, and start reading.
P.S. While we guarantee these are some of the best books after divorce, we also understand that you're tired. If you find yourself dozing off in the middle of a book and don't come out of this a changed person, well ... at least you're getting that much-needed shut-eye.
