Turning the Page: Reinvent Your Life with Meaningful Activities
Marriages can certainly come to an end. It does not have to be the end of our journeys. Change can often be unwelcome, uncomfortable, or even frightening. Nevertheless, there is opportunity for positive change. If, after a divorce, we find ourselves alone, with less of what we once knew, indeed even with more time on our hands, it is more than possible to take this opportunity to indulge in life in ways that do not involve spouses or relationships, and that life is now granting us time to indulge in any multitude of interests or hobbies.
The mind can be one’s greatest enemy. Nothing can break us faster than that which stresses the mind out, sometimes even to the point of obsession. Obsessing is bad, and we all need balance. Now is the perfect time to let go of what you can't control and protect your peace. Of course, that is easier said than done. Naturally, we are not ever islands in life; we may still have children to raise or jobs to do. Yet, even with responsibilities, exploring new hobbies after a divorce can be a powerful way to shift focus and rediscover joy.
Indulging in the Mind
As a lawyer, I have written extensively, primarily in the context of my family law practice. But our ability to write can be so much more than a professional skill; it can become a creative outlet. Do you like stories? Is it a stretch to imply you may have a story of your own to write? This could be a fictional tale or a memoir; the genres are near limitless. Whichever the case, spending time writing your ideas and stories can be deeply fulfilling, and who knows? Your story could even be shared with the rest of the world.
Naturally, writing isn’t the only way to exercise the mind. If you have the ability and bravery, you could try painting, sculpting, or learning an instrument. If you can find those with shared interests, it’s never too late in life to start that new band and maybe even play a few local shows. Such hobbies can keep our minds focused, keep the brain sharp, like a blade that has been used but it ready again to cut away and find new joys.
Mind Over Muscle, or Vice Versa
Equally crucial to stimulating the mind is maintaining a healthy body. As we grow and change, physical health will always be of the utmost importance. It is not uncommon for a person to give up on their health after a divorce, to reach a point of not eating right, or much at all, or even too much. Easy as it may be to fall into such a trap, this can be a time in life to focus on a more positive path regarding the body.
We can find hobbies that will aid the body, not only in terms of weight and good nutrition, but also in promoting mental health, which is achieved through good fitness and stress reduction. Perhaps it is time to hit the gym and lift those weights. Running, swimming, tennis, pickleball, cycling, the list can go on and on if a person is only willing to try and enjoy.
The goal is to achieve or maintain good health, and the mind is an integral part of the body, as it is of life as a whole. Yoga is another option for those who wish to indulge in both body and mind. Taking up martial arts or a self-defense class can bring about not only good health but new experiences never considered before. In addition to finding new activities to enjoy, one can also meet like-minded people who are on their own journeys. There is no need to do it all alone. These newfound hobbies are some that can last a whole lifetime.
Finding Your Own Path
We only scratched the surface of the many hobbies that can bring joy, calm, and reduce stress after a divorce. There are countless options out there, so it's worth exploring until you find one, or a few, that truly resonate. If it turns out something doesn’t feel right after trying it, that’s perfectly okay. Move on and experiment with something new.
These new opportunities open doors to fresh experiences, broaden perspectives, and introduce fun and fulfillment we might not have expected. Positive experiences can lead to more positive, good experiences can lead to better, and the best part about the entire journey is that it is our own choice and own road.
Attorney Spotlight: Bret Hunter - Los Angeles
With this edition of Attorney Spotlight, I am pleased to feature one of our esteemed Los Angeles colleagues in Blank Rome’s Matrimonial & Family Law group—Bret Hunter.
With over two decades of legal experience, Bret is a trusted and integral member of our Matrimonial & Family Law team. A graduate of the University of Michigan and the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University, Bret has successfully represented clients in numerous high-stakes cases involving substantial marital assets. His expertise, commitment, and in-depth knowledge of family law make him exceptionally qualified to navigate even the most challenging legal matters.
Prior to practicing law, Bret was active in the Washington, D.C. political arena. He caught the political bug early, working at a young age in various internships on Capitol Hill. After attending law school, Bret continued to work in the D.C. area in politics before deciding to begin a full-time career as a lawyer. Family law offered him the opportunity to work closely with people, much like he did during his time on the Hill. Bret eventually moved to California, where he continues to practice law to this day.
As a family law attorney, Bret recognizes the inherently therapeutic aspect of his work. He understands that clients often face some of the most emotionally challenging periods of their lives, and that legal representation in such cases requires not only legal expertise but also emotional sensitivity and understanding. Bret is always accessible, even if that means answering a call at 1:00 a.m. to help a client navigate an urgent issue. While such situations are far from ideal, Bret consistently rises to the occasion, offering solutions and support whenever needed. His clients greatly appreciate his unwavering dedication and willingness to advocate for them whenever required.
Outside his legal practice, Bret enjoys spending quality time with his teenage son. Together, they share a passion for travel and exploring global cultures, often immersing themselves in the richness of international experiences. Among their favorite destinations is Italy, where they are especially captivated by its art, cuisine, and historical legacy. Rome and other Italian cities hold a special place in the hearts of many, offering countless opportunities to deepen one's appreciation for Italian culture and history.
© 2025 Blank Rome LLP. All rights reserved. Please contact Blank Rome for permission to reprint. Notice: The purpose of this update is to identify select developments that may be of interest to readers. The information contained herein is abridged and summarized from various sources, the accuracy and completeness of which cannot be assured. This update should not be construed as legal advice or opinion, and is not a substitute for the advice of counsel.
