Financial Resolutions for Single Women
Kelley Hughes • January 5, 2024

As the new year begins, I'm reflecting on the journey of personal transformation, particularly for newly single women. Going through a divorce is not just an emotional upheaval, it's also a significant financial turning point. In this spirit of new beginnings, I want to share insights and strategies that have helped me and others embrace financial independence and empowerment in this phase of life.

Resolution #1: Budgeting

Budgeting becomes a solo act after divorce. It's not just about spending less money, it's finally understanding and taking control of your finances. When you review every inflow and outflow, it's surprising to see where your money actually goes, and it's empowering to decide where you want your money to go! Adjustments are inevitable as you decide to intentionally spend or intentionally save money- maybe you're dining out less, revisiting subscriptions, and finding joy in cost-effective hobbies you're finally able to partake in now that you're in control of your money (and your time). The essence of budgeting lies in intentional spending.

Resolution #2: Invest in Yourself

Investing in yourself is another crucial aspect. Post-divorce, I took a hard look at my career and personal growth. Many women I know further their education and skills. If financially sound, this investment is not limited to professional development; emotional and physical well-being are equally important. Nurturing my health through activities like yoga or therapy made a significant difference. It's a holistic approach where investing in oneself pays dividends in every aspect of life.

Resolution #3: Emergency Funds

Building a safety net, particularly an emergency fund, was a priority. Life's unpredictability doesn't pause, and having a financial cushion is essential. Start by saving a small portion of your income regularly. The goal is to have a fund that could cover several months of living expenses, providing peace of mind and security.

Resolution #4: Hire a Financial Advisor

Long-term financial security is something I had to start thinking about more seriously. This includes planning for retirement, exploring investment options, and understanding estate planning. Seeking professional advice is a game changer. It helps set realistic goals and take actionable steps towards securing your financial future.

Resolution #5: Empowered Money Mindset

However, the most transformative aspect for me and what I've heard from other women like us is a shift in mindset. Viewing financial management not as a burden but as an exciting journey to independence is empowering. Embracing financial independence means making conscious choices, staying informed, and actively managing my finances.

In this new chapter, it's crucial to remember that you're not navigating these waters alone. There are countless women on similar paths, and there's strength in shared experiences. Seeking support through groups or financial advisors specializing in post-divorce financial planning can be incredibly beneficial. The new year symbolizes a new chapter, especially for those of us starting anew after a divorce. It's a time to redefine our financial futures with optimism and empowerment. Let's approach it confidently and believe in our abilities to manage and thrive in our financial lives. I'd be happy to work with you to develop your financial plan for this new life chapter. Schedule a consult with me here to learn how we can work together.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Want More Clarity in Your Attorney Meetings?

By Kelley Hughes • October 17, 2025
Meeting with your divorce attorney can feel overwhelming. You're asked for details about your finances, assets, and future needs - often at a time when emotions are running high. Without preparation, it's easy to feel lost or to leave important things unsaid.

5 Financial Mistakes Women Make After Divorce

By Kelley Hughes • October 10, 2025
Divorce may be over, but the financial decisions you make afterward are just as important. Many women underestimate how much their money habits, expenses, and future planning change once the papers are signed.

Divorce Financial Checklist: What to Do in the First 90 Days

By Kelley Hughes • October 3, 2025
The first 90 days after divorce can feel like a blur. Between legal documents, living arrangements, and adjusting to your "new normal," it's easy to let financial details slip through the cracks. But these early steps matter - they lay the foundation for your long-term security.

Should You Keep or Sell the Home After Divorce?

By Kelley Hughes • September 26, 2025
For many women, deciding whether to keep or sell the marital home after divorce is one of the most emotional - and financially complicated - choices they face. A house can feel like stability, but it also comes with big financial responsibilities.

Divorce Trends 2025: What Women Need to Know

By Kelley Hughes • September 19, 2025
Divorce isn't just a separation - it's often a financial reset, a moment of clarity, and sometimes the start of an entirely new chapter. As we step into 2025, the landscape of divorce in the U.S. is shifting in ways that directly impact women's lives, finances, and futures.

Divorce & Kids: 3 Hidden Expenses

By Kelley Hughes • September 12, 2025
Divorce changes a lot, but one truth never changes: kids are expensive. For moms, navigating shared expenses with an ex-spouse can feel like a second full-time job. Even with child support in place, the "extras" pile up-sports fees, orthodontics, summer camps, and those last-minute school supply runs that always seem to happen when your budget is already stretched.

I never thought I'd say this, but....

By Kelley Hughes • September 6, 2025
Yesterday, I was on the phone with my Ex discussing the kids and making some decisions together. He said that "parenting adult children is really hard," and I answered that I preferred it way more than parenting toddlers. He then made the comment that he can't seem to get away from the young ones--that his girlfriend has a 7-year old, but she was on the long-term plan. I asked him if he was going to get married again (he's going through a second divorce), and he said "not for awhile." That's when I said it. I said, "You know, if you want to do some financial planning to protect our kids' legacies, then okay." He agreed that might be a good idea. Ya'll--this was a HUGE moment. It marks the occasion where we've healed and recovered enough from our divorce to be able to talk on the phone without me hanging up on verbal abuse. It marks the occasion where he's comfortable even CONTEMPLATING discussing his finances with me. And it marks the occasion where we've been able to discuss something future-oriented again because we have kids together. Once again, we share a common goal. It's been a really long time.

Life After Divorce: How to Strengthen Your Retirement

By Kelley Hughes • July 23, 2025
Divorce can shift everything-your day-to-day life, your relationships, and your financial future. As overwhelming as it may feel, this new life chapter is also an opportunity to build strength, clarity, and control. When it comes to retirement, the steps you take now will help protect your independence for years to come.

How Divorce Affects Social Security Benefits for Women

By Kelley Hughes • July 16, 2025
When navigating the financial challenges of divorce, many women overlook one critical piece of the puzzle: Social Security benefits. Understanding how divorce impacts your benefits can help you make smarter decisions now - and better prepare for your financial future.

Before You Hire An Attorney....

By Kelley Hughes • July 9, 2025
Last week, I met with a woman in her early 50s who was preparing to separate from her husband. They share three children-two are grown and out on their own, and their youngest still has two years of high school to go. Like many women I work with, her biggest concern was understanding the financial side of the divorce. She's been a stay-at-home mom for nearly 20 years, having left a promising career to raise her family. Now, she finds herself financially dependent on her husband-and completely in the dark about their finances.