How Being A Divorced Father Can Hurt Your Income

I recently wrote an article about how being a divorced mother can hurt your income. If you haven't had a chance to read it, you can check it out here. 

However, I also wanted to give you a chance to see it from the father's side. They, too, can become overwhelmed by their new lifestyle, whether or not they are the primary caretakers. 

Here are some ways that fathers can feel like their incomes can be in jeopardy as single fathers. 

They may be overwhelmed by the need to provide for their children. Many fathers feel like they have to be the primary provider when it comes to their families. When it doesn't work out, they often still feel like they have to take care of everybody. Their money might not go as far when they are trying to take care of two households, instead of just one. 

Some men also try to spoil their children, since they don't have as much time with them as they used to. For fathers who only have visitation, they may try to spend their money on fancy gifts and gadgets as a way to show their love. They may not have the money to do this, but they feel like they have to show their children how much they really do care. 

Then, there are the fathers who are the primary caretakers. These fathers, similar to single mothers, often have to take care of their children when they are sick and are unable to go to school or even daycare. They may even be in charge of virtual learning and all of the other responsibilities that need to be taken care of on a regular basis. 

So, what can these fathers do? Here are some things that you can do about it.

Find the right job. The right job will see you as an asset, not a problem. It might also help to find a job that offers you the opportunity to work from home when you can, as well as some flexibility in your shifts to help with childcare options.

If you are paying a lot of money for child custody, you may even want to look for a part-time job to help supplement your income. You want to give your children the best life possible, even if it means working a little more every day. 

Just like single mothers, you may want to look at short-term or even part-time jobs. This will allow you to try out a few jobs until you find something that is perfect for you. It may even turn into a permanent or full-time position, which might be just what you need! 

Freelancing may also be an option for you. Many parents are looking for ways to bring in income while working from home. You can work around your children's schedules while still providing for your children. This may be a great way to bring in some extra income if your regular full-time job isn't cutting it! 

It is also important that you learn to work with your ex (when it comes to the children). Though it takes time, you are going to want to find a new way to work with your ex. You may ask her to step up when you are overwhelmed at work. She may be able to help with taking your children to different activities. You may have to do the same when she is swamped! This is just better for your children (and yourself).

It can be really hard to find a balance between spending time with your children and making the right income to support everyone. Many men struggle because they want the best for their children. They feel like they need to give them everything that they can, especially if they went without when they were younger. 

To do this, you need to find the right job. You may even need a second job in order to help support your family. Freelancing might also be a good option for you, allowing you to bring in some extra income while still allowing you to spend quality time with your children!

Previously published on Medium and/or Newsbreak.