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Welcome to Divorce & Starting Over Blog

May 9, 2025
4 min read

Updated: Sep 28

You’re Not Alone, and This Is Not the End

Hi, I’m glad you’re here. Whether you’re fresh in the middle of heartbreak or just trying to catch your breath after a long, messy road, you’ve landed in the right place.

At Surviving Life Lessons, this blog isn’t here to tell you to get over it. It’s here to remind you:

You’re not alone, and this is not the end. If you’re looking for stories, reflections, and encouragement written for real people navigating real pain, you can explore our Blog Series Catalog. Each post is meant to meet you gently, wherever you are in your healing.

Take what you need.Come back when you’re ready.You’re welcome here.

Man running on a winding highway toward sunrise with birds and scenic valley, symbolizing the journey of starting over after divorce
Running Toward Peace, One Step at a Time

My Story About Divorce and Starting Over

I went through a divorce that nearly broke me.

Over three years of separation, confusion, and emotional hell, I didn’t know if I’d make it through.

But somehow, one painful day at a time, I did.


And here’s the truth: I wouldn’t be living this version of my life if I were still with my ex-husband.

I wouldn’t be traveling.

I wouldn’t be writing books.

And I wouldn’t be blogging for you right now.


I rediscovered who I was.

I built peace out of pieces.

And today, I can honestly say—I’m living the happiest version of my life.

Not because it’s perfect, but because it’s mine.


What You’ll Find Here

This space is for people walking the path I once crawled.

Whether you were left, had to leave, or just reached the point where staying hurt more than going—this is for you.


Here on the blog, you’ll find:


  • Personal stories about surviving and healing after divorce

  • Tips for managing time, stress, kids, money, and overwhelm

  • Gentle truths about grief, forgiveness, guilt, and finding yourself again

  • Encouragement from someone who’s lived it—and finally come out the other side


Every post is meant to feel like a conversation with a friend who gets it.


Join a Community That Understands

We have support groups—safe spaces where life survivors help life strugglers. Whether you’re still going through it or just learning to smile again, there’s a place for you here. No...these are not counselors or doctors who have went through years of counseling. These are real people, with real lives, who have overcome some crazy stuff. No one knows your story or can fix your problems. What they can do is let you know how they worked through theirs. If 20 people have 20 different solutions, then that is awesome. Because you can take snippets of each persons suggestions and tailor your own solutions.


You can also suggest blog topics, ask questions, or share your own experiences. This isn’t just my story about divorce and starting over—it’s a place for all of us learning to start over.



What You Can Try Today

If this is your first day finding us, start small:


  • Read a post that speaks to where you are right now

  • Join one of our free support groups

  • Write down one thing you’ve survived already—you’ve made it through more than you think

  • Remind yourself: this is not the end of your story


Welcome to your beginning. It won’t be easy—but it can still be beautiful. Just take life one day at a time. Sometimes just one breath at a time.


I’m living proof.


Where to Go From Here

Starting over after divorce is easier when you have people walking beside you. At Surviving Life Lessons, we believe in life survivors helping life strugglers. Our Divorce & Separation Support Group is a place to talk with others who are living through it right now, and our Loneliness & Isolation Support Group is there for the quiet nights when the house feels too empty. You can also browse our Community Groups Catalog to find every group that fits where you are right now.



Your Story Matters

We need your nice comments below! Your thoughts, experiences, and lessons learned might be exactly what someone else needs to hear today.

Drop a comment, Say Hello, and join the conversation.


Need More Personalized Support?

Everyone's journey is unique. If you're looking for personalized guidance, encouragement, or one-on-one support, explore our services to find the option that's right for you. We're here to help you take your next step with confidence and hope.

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Helpful Resources for Your Journey

Explore our collection of books, journals, coloring books, and printable PDFs designed to encourage, inspire, and support you every step of the way.

Get to know the people behind Surviving Life Lessons: Meet the Team

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Don’t Lose Yourself (PDF) Guided Journal
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About the Author:

Deborah Ann Martin is the founder of Surviving Life Lessons, a published author, poet, speaker, and trainer with over 20 years of management experience across multiple industries. An MBA graduate, U.S. veteran, single mother, and rare cancer survivor, Deborah brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her writing on resilience, leadership, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Her mission is to empower others with practical wisdom and real-life insight to navigate life’s challenges with strength and purpose.

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Surviving Life Lessons is built entirely on shared personal experiences and lived stories from our community members and founder. We are not medical, mental health, financial, or legal professionals, and nothing here constitutes professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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This site offers inspiration, encouragement, community support, and peer-shared insights only. It is not a substitute for qualified professional care. Always consult licensed healthcare providers, therapists, counselors, financial advisors, or legal experts for your specific needs and circumstances.

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We encourage safe, respectful sharing and remind everyone that individual experiences vary — what helped one person may not apply to another.

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