My Way or the Highway: A Costly Divorce Mistake

Are you someone who always wants to be right? A Type A perfectionist like me? If so, this common mistake might hit close to home.

During a divorce, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that your way is the only way. You dig in your heels, refuse to compromise, and approach every decision as a battle to be won. The problem? Divorce isn't about winning—it's about moving forward.

Take Sarah, for example. When her marriage ended, she became fixated on keeping the house. To her, it wasn't just a place to live—it was proof that she didn't lose. She fought for it in mediation, spent thousands in legal fees, and ultimately got what she wanted. But six months later, she realized she couldn't afford the mortgage on her own. She was house-rich but financially strapped. If she had approached the situation differently, she might have negotiated a settlement that truly set her up for success. Within my practice, I have seen many different varieties of this same story. 

Divorce can bring out the worst in people—anger takes over, rational thinking disappears, and everything feels high-stakes. But take a moment to pause and ask yourself: Will this really matter in one, three, or five years? The couch, the car, or even who filed for divorce—will those details define your future happiness?

Instead of clinging to "winning," focus on what really matters:

✓ Your Financial Future – Craft a realistic budget and understand your finances.

✓ Your Peace of Mind – Let go of what's draining you emotionally and financially.

✓ Your Children's Well-Being – Prioritize healthy co-parenting over point-scoring.

✓ Your Non-Negotiables – Identify what truly matters and be willing to compromise on the rest.

"My Way or the Highway" is just one of the common mistakes women make during divorce. To save yourself from making this mistake and others. download my e-book here.