Atlanta Divorce Law Group - February 2022

Atlanta Divorce Law Group - February 2022

Your Secret Weapon Is … Yourself! A Divorce Lesson From My Dad’s Art

My dad was in his 50s when we moved to the United States, and he barely spoke any English. He had learned Swedish in his 30s after we moved from Iran to Sweden; but once we got to the United States, he felt overwhelmed with the idea of once again learning a brand new language. So in order to express himself and share his viewpoints on life, he found a different way to express himself: art. Wood and copper became my dad’s mediums. He turned the garage into a workshop and crafted beautiful conceptual pieces. His artworks are simple to look at, but they have deep messages. One of my favorites shows two male figures. One is falling and the other is reaching out to save him. At first the figures look like two different men, but when you analyze the work closely, you can see that they’re the same person!

I love the thought behind that piece. It’s a great reminder that we’re all stronger than we think. When I look at those figures, they seem to be telling me, “Sara, you are not a victim of your mind. You are not a victim of your circumstances. You don’t need anybody outside of yourself. You are your own hero and secret weapon — everything you need lies within you. Just reach in and grab it, and you can get yourself out of any situation.” That happens to be the exact same message my team and I try to share with our clients at ADLG. I must have gotten it from my dad! His art — and his life story — are great examples of empowerment, and I’m on a mission to help my clients empower themselves. “Empowerment” is a tricky word, and a lot of people use it the wrong way. I’ve heard plenty of well-meaning people say, “I want to empower women” or “I want to empower fathers,” but the truth is you can’t empower anybody. You can give someone confidence, inspiration, and tools, but it’s up to them to find their own power. Of course, doing that won’t fix everything. Even empowered people still need support, resources, and another set of eyes to give them a fresh perspective on their problems. But the truth my dad’s work shares is that empowerment is a great place to start. You can accomplish the biggest things on your own. I see this all the time in my work. As difficult as it sounds, after a divorce, you are the only person who can change your mindset and get yourself out of a bad situation. Only you can change your decisions. My team and I can help. If you’re struggling right now, turn to Pg. 2 and check out our Happily Ever After Divorce support group. It might be just what you need to find your inner strength. “At first the figures look like two different men, but when you analyze the work closely, you can see that they’re the same person!”

February 2022

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–Sara Khaki 678-203-9893

Art by Mohsen Gharib; photo by Janet Howard

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WE’LL HELP YOU MOVE ON 2 Events to Get You Through Valentine’s Day

Kathleen is an experienced marriage and family therapist, couples therapist, and divorce coach with a host of other credentials. She also runs her own family counseling company, Family Solutions Counseling LLC. The discussions she leads will encourage you to reflect, leave your questions and fears behind, and move forward through this Valentine’s Day and many more! DIVORCING A NARCISSIST (COMPLIMENTARYWEBINAR) When: Tuesday, Feb. 22, at 6:30 p.m. Register: AtlantaDivorceLawGroup.com/ Webinars/Divorcing-a-Narcissist No divorce is easy, but if your spouse is manipulative, controlling, self-centered, and lacking empathy, that makes the process even harder. You may not have noticed these things for years, but once you do, they’re impossible to

Our complimentary divorce support groups and seminars are available online! Register for these upcoming events to gain knowledge, resources, and emotional support that will help you feel empowered while you go through major life changes. HAPPILY EVER AFTER DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP MEETING (VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP) When: Saturday, Feb. 12, at 10 a.m. Register: AtlantaDivorceLawGroup.com/Happily- Ever-After-Divorce-Support-Group V alentine’s Day is one of the most difficult holidays to get through after a divorce, but you don’t have to do it alone. The members of our virtual support group — which meets monthly online — are in the same tough situation you are, and they can help you find your inner strength. Not only will you meet your peers at the group, but you’ll also be introduced to Kathleen Shack, the host.

ignore. Fortunately, here at ADLG we’re well- versed in the steps it takes to divorce a narcissist, even a covert one who appears shy, reserved, and self-deprecating at first glance. During this complimentary webinar, our team will walk you through the process, what to expect at each stage, and how to prepare. It just might be the confidence boost you need to stand up for yourself and your future. Here at ADLG, we’re not letting COVID-19 slow us down. Sign up for these virtual events to get the information and support you need without leaving home.

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for adults. Let your kids know they are the most important loves in your life with these sweet, inexpensive ideas that the whole family can enjoy! Your children will remember these traditions for years to come. MAKE A SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY BREAKFAST. Guess what? Pink pancakes, pink milk, and even pink eggs are a thing! With strawberry milk, food coloring and strawberries in the pancakes, and food coloring in the eggs, you’ll have an effortless and special breakfast for the little ones. Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Your Little Sweethearts

Tip: Set the table the night before after the kids go to bed to make serving Valentine’s Day breakfast easier the next morning.

CREATE VALENTINE’S DAY CARDS FOR EACH KID. Tell your children all of your favorite things about them with their own personalized cards. There are so many ways you can get crafty with construction paper and glitter. Your kids are sure to love getting mommy-made or daddy-made one-of-a-kind valentines. BAKE VALENTINE’S DAY GOODIES TOGETHER. What’s better than baking with your little ones? If you are short on time, you can find premade dough, usually with a Valentine’s Day theme. Or, you can try out your skills with heart-shaped cookie cutters and sprinkles. It can get messy, but it’s certainly worth it! WRAP UP A SMALL VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT. Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day outfit, candy, a teddy bear, or a necklace, it doesn’t have to be big or costly! Your children will enjoy feeling the love, and they’ll be excited to get something new. Don’t forget to have fun with the wrapping! Most stores have Valentine’s Day gift bags and wrapping paper around this time of year.

Your baby valentines have stolen your heart — make sure they know it by spreading the love! Happy Valentine’s Day!

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Did your significant other leave it up to you to come up with a romantic date idea this Valentine’s Day? Luckily for you, there are tons of date activities that are easy and affordable for you to enjoy with Mother Nature. While the possibilities are endless outside, here are three popular outdoor date ideas! WATCH THE SUNSET. Sunsets are intuitively romantic: The sun paints the sky in calming reds, pinks, and purples, creating a beautiful backdrop. While watching the sunset, you and your partner can have a romantic picnic with the sky in view. Or you can embrace the scenery with your other half and create memories you both will never forget. GO STARGAZING. If you live in the city, stargazing is a good chance to escape for the night and get away from the light pollution in the city. If you already live in a location where you can easily see the stars, take advantage of the peaceful privacy with your loved one. Maybe you’ll spot a shooting star you can wish upon while you’re out there! HIT UP A DRIVE-IN MOVIE. If you’re looking for a way to be extra comfy while still sitting outside, a drive-in movie is the best destination! The best part about a drive-in is that you can view both new and old movies as well as bring your own snacks and drinks. If the weather permits and if you have a truck, you can load the bed with blankets and pillows and have a cozy night while watching a movie. These date night ideas are perfect for Valentine’s Day, but they don’t have to be limited to just the holiday! You can also consider these for any date that you have with your significant other. Nothing brings couples closer like being together with nature. Concierge Partner’s Corner Aditya Patel of Edward Jones Closing the door on your divorce feels like reclaiming your freedom. But breaking free of your marriage doesn’t mean you’re financially free. In fact, after a divorce money just gets more complicated. According to Bloomberg people who divorce after age 50 often see a 50% drop in their personal wealth. Younger people also take a hit, but hiring a financial advisor like Aditya Patel of Edward Jones can help you regain control of your finances. Aditya knows the importance of financial freedom. When he was young, his parents moved to the U.S. from India with hopes of a brighter future, but fell victim to bad financial advice. As he puts it, they “will likely never achieve the financial freedom of which they once dreamed.”

3 Outside Date Night Ideas YOU, ME, AND THE GREATOUTDOORS

What Our Clients Are Saying!

“Everything about the Atlanta Divorce Law Group has been awesome. From the time I walked into the firm, not knowing where to begin, the firm assured me I had nothing to fear or worry about. They were with me every step of the way. This was my first marriage and the firm made everything easy for me. They took care of everything. I can not say enough about the team here. Communication is key with them, they make you feel like family, and they truly understand how to get you through this process. I truly want to say thank you to everyone I came into contact with and to let everyone know that you are great at what you do.” –Charrise A.

It’s Aditya’s mission to right that wrong and help as many Georgia families as he can meet their financial goal for retirement, education, and more.

“My motivation as a financial advisor is to ensure that nothing like what happened to my parents happens to anyone else,” he writes. “I partner with my clients to understand their short- and long-term goals and build a comprehensive plan to achieve those goals with the hope for a lifelong partnership.”

To find out more about how Aditya can help you become totally free, call him at 770-664-5085.

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Get Creative This Valentine’s Day NOT ANOTHER CANDLELIT DINNER

SCHEDULE A COUPLES’ SPA DAY. Forget what you think you know: Spa days are for everyone. Your other half will love the opportunity to experience a massage, sauna, and other assorted treatments. Plus, many

Roses, chocolate, and fancy restaurants are Valentine’s Day staples for a reason. They’re classic and timeless, but if you’ve done them year after year, they could also get a little bit boring. To wow your significant other this Feb. 14, think beyond the most famous ways to celebrate. They’ll probably appreciate a twist — and the time you spent making their day special. CREATE A RELATIONSHIP SCRAPBOOK. Nothing says “I love you” like a gift you’ve made with your own hands. By making a scrapbook of your favorite memories with your partner, you’ll also amaze them with your sensitivity and dedication. A scrapbook can consist of photographs, restaurant menus, movie tickets, wedding invitations, vacation souvenirs, and some carefully chosen words about why you value the relationship. Don’t be afraid to get inventive with your decorations or scour the internet for tips and tricks. GO STARGAZING. What’s more romantic than staring up at the stars? Your first step will be to find a local spot that’s dark and secluded enough for a good view of the nighttime sky. Once you do, your next course of action will depend on the weather. If it’s temperate, get a picnic blanket and enjoy the outdoors. If it’s cold, stay in the car, turn off the headlights, and snuggle up. Don’t forget to bring wine and a romantic snack. If all goes well, you might end up watching the sunrise. Think You’re Ready to Date Again? Take Our Quiz to Find Out! Every department store in Atlanta is filled with Valentine’s Day decorations right now, and the rows of flowers, chocolates, and teddy bears are enough to make even the most tentative divorcee think about romance again. But are you really ready to date? There’s no set timeline for dating after divorce. The time passing on the calendar doesn’t really matter — it’s how you feel that’s important. (With one exception: We recommend waiting to date until your divorce is finalized.) That said, how do you feel? If you’re not sure whether you’re ready to date, grab a pen and answer this five-question quiz to find out. These five questions can give you a lot of insight into your mental state. Regarding question No. 1, if you want to date because you’re lonely, scared, or want revenge, you may need to take more time to heal before jumping back into the dating pool. Similarly, if your answer to question No. 2 is that you’re hoping to find a new spouse (rather than learn more about yourself or have fun), you may need to step back and reevaluate before you date. Those high stakes will set you up for disappointment. If you can answer questions Nos. 3 and 4 easily, that’s a good sign you’re ready to date again! If you can’t, work up two lists so you’re ready for a new relationship. Finally, question No. 5 can be very telling. If you still have strong feelings about your ex (negative or positive), you may need to work on finding neutrality for a bit longer before starting a new relationship. To do that, consider joining our Happily Ever Divorce Support Group (details on Pg. 2).

spas offer romantic couples’ packages with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Once you’re both sufficiently relaxed and looking your best, you’ll likely feel closer than ever. Some spas also offer overnight stays so you can transition seamlessly into a romantic evening. All of these ideas will take a little bit of planning, so it’s time to start dreaming up your big surprise. When you see their reaction, your only concern will be how to top yourself next year.

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