High-earning professionals often feel a lot of pressure concerning their finances. They may be subject to high expectations from employers. Their families may also expect a relatively comfortable standard of living.
If someone who has developed a successful, well-paid career divorces, the change in their marital status could very easily lead to changes in their professional circumstances as well. Technically, workers have no obligation to inform their employers immediately of a divorce, and their marital status should have little to no impact on their career opportunities. However, the psychological impact of divorce can theoretically have major implications for the future of a professional.
What are the most common psychological consequences of a divorce involving at least one high-earning professional?
Divorce can inspire negative consequences
Factors including the underlying cause of the divorce, the length of the marriage and even the personality of the high-earning individual can influence how they respond to divorce. For many people, divorce results in soul searching and possibly depression, at least initially.
It can be difficult for people to move on after a marriage falls apart, even if they recognize that the end of the marriage is likely to be beneficial for them in the long run. Depression, anxiety and a negative change in self-esteem could all impact job performance. Some people develop substance abuse issues that affect their careers.
The psychological consequences of divorce could also affect their working relationships by making them seem less proficient and trustworthy to some people. Occasionally, those who previously earned competitive wages may struggle to keep their jobs and continue their career advancement. Others May intentionally withdraw from their careers because they resent the obligation to provide financial support after a divorce.
Divorce can improve mental health and job performance
Contrary to what many people assume, not everyone experiences negative mental health consequences after a divorce. Some people truly flourish after ending a marriage. Particularly in scenarios where spouses regularly fought prior to the end of the marriage, divorce might mean that a professional can focus more fully on their career.
Eliminating the negativity and pressure that may have come from a spouse during a marriage could yield benefits in the workplace and in secondary relationships, such as relationships with coworkers, clients and subordinates.
Having a realistic but positive perspective about rebuilding after a complex, high-asset divorce can help people achieve an even better lifestyle after the end of a marriage. High earners who end unhealthy marriages might be able to achieve even greater career success in the future after leaving an unsatisfying or unhealthy relationship.