July 28, 2009

Website helps users get through divorce
Online tools help divorcees

Statistics show that nearly half of the marriages performed in Canada and the United States today will fail and end in divorce, with the rate even higher for those who marry more than once. To ease the burden for millions of North Americans, Don Dixon has developed and launched ManageMyDivorce.com, an online tool that will guide people through the arduous process — every step of the way.

“When you talk about divorce, there are really four divorces — emotional, social, financial and legal,” says Dixon, who dealt with his own difficult divorce more than 15 years ago.“Divorce is not just a legal or financial exercise. It’s not just about splitting stuff and money. It’s about two adults, often with children in the mixture, and their collective well-being.”

The primary objective of the ManageMyDivorce.com website is reducing the three major expenses of divorce — time, money and emotional turmoil — while providing general background information, rather than specific legal, financial or other personal advice.

ManageMyDivorce.com provides clients with a road map, structure and support through the process of divorce. Its tools and resources are designed to help partners — and any number of personal or professional advisors — maintain the lines of communication, reduce conflict and stress, and establish civility and accountability.

Software and resources include video tutorials, general background advice, and helpful suggestions from the ManageMyDivorce.com team of professionals. The site takes a holistic approach, with time management and self-reflection tools available to help clients look after themselves.

There is no advertising, or sale of other products, on the site; clients purchase an account and have access for the duration of their package terms.

“People are vulnerable in this situation. We’re trying to make this a very safe place for them to go,” says Dixon, a Calgary resident, author, instructor and businessman. “One of our key goals is to provide clarity in a period that may prove to be one of the most confusing times of your life.”

“I went through a very difficult divorce, and it was a huge issue for me,” adds Dixon, who earned his BA from Dartmouth College and his Masters of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Western Ontario.

“I’ve had cancer, a heart attack, and major financial losses. Still, my divorce was far and away the most difficult experience of my life.”

Dixon will also launch a free website, WhyAmIHurting.com, to help individuals and couples identify potentially abusive behaviour in their relationships.