If you are thinking about divorce but feel trapped, take time this weekend to write down any and every option you may have that would allow you move on. For example, here are a few options a stay at home mom might come up with:

Option 1: My husband can move out of our house and live with his brother temporarily, without paying rent. I can find a part-time job and begin working while my children are in school each day from 8 to 3. My husband can continue to pay the mortgage until we sell the house and divide the sales proceeds.

Option 2: My children and I can move-in with my mother, who can watch the children every afternoon. I can get a full time job and help pay my mom’s bills while I’m living with her. My husband can buy my interest in our house and can continue paying the mortgage, utilities, etc. on his own.

Option 3: Before I tell my husband I want the divorce, I’ll put the kids in an after school program so I can go back to work full-time. Once I start working I’ll open a savings account with my earnings and when I have saved enough, I’ll rent an apartment and move out with the children.

Come up with as many options as you can and figure out which option feels right. Then, begin taking the steps you need to put your plan into action. Remember, like everything else in life, getting divorced takes planning, hard work and a leap of faith. You can do it if you put your mind into it.

This is not legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have legal questions that relate to your specific divorce. Technorati Tags: divorce planning preparing how to separation divorcing getting divorced legal women woman law