Many people feel that they have lost their best friend after a divorce. Sometimes this is true and sometimes it is not. Some people grow apart and the divorce is actually simply the splitting of financial assets when feelings that have long ago disappeared.

For those people who did share all of their dreams, hopes and aspirations with their spouse, the loss can be every more painful. Having someone to be there for you when you are feeling vulnerable is important, but it does not need to be a spouse.

Many people recognize that they possess the strength to move forward with confidence and conviction even after a divorce. Some rely on friends, co-workers, siblings or family members. Other turn to support groups which allow people to share thoughts and make new friends.

If you need professional help, you can always seek an understanding therapist. At the end of the day, you will need to look for strength within yourself.

This is often easier said than done. The fear that can creep into your mind in the dead of the night can be very strong. The self doubt that you may feel moving though the world without a spouse can seem debilitating.

This does not need to happen. You have many attributes and talents. If you have forgotten them, think back to the activities and causes that you love. They will come back to you. Write your goals and aspirations. Develop a plan to achieve them.

You are human and will always have setbacks and doubts. The key is not allowing them to overwhelm you and cause you to abandon your goals.

This is where the friends, family, support groups or therapist can help. We all need someone to lean on in times of doubt. Many people think this is a spouse and when he/she is gone, their world is over. It is not. Life will go on and you will form new relationships. You are a strong person who will and can start anew. After some time has passed, you will look back on your life with pride and wonder why you ever believed that you were alone after your divorce.