Chapter 1: Embracing Change

Recently, I made a significant decision that has changed my life. After my divorce eight years ago, I never thought about reverting to my maiden name. With two young children, I wanted to minimize any disruptions in their lives.

Fast forward to today—my kids have grown up, I’ve welcomed another sister into our family, and I’ve shifted my career focus. I’ve realized my children are indifferent to my last name; what truly matters to them is that I remain their Mom.

For over 15 years, I dedicated myself to being a Registered Nurse and educator. While I cherish caring for patients, the nursing profession has drastically shifted, especially post-pandemic. The conditions nurses face are alarming, with overwhelming nurse-to-patient ratios that often exceed ten patients at once, many of whom are critically ill and need more attention than one stressed nurse can provide.

Consequently, I made the tough choice to step away from nursing to focus on my mental and physical well-being. I also yearned for the flexibility of working from home, like many other mothers I observed.

After a few weeks at home, I stumbled upon a job advertisement for a Medical Content Writer. This opportunity felt like a perfect fit, blending my medical background with the chance to work from home.

I enrolled in online courses, honed my writing skills, and learned about being a solopreneur. Progress was steady until I took some time last weekend to envision what my new business would entail. As a first-time business owner, the journey was both exciting and daunting.

Section 1.1: Naming My Business

Choosing a name for my venture felt monumental. While brainstorming, I had a surprising emotional response. Each time I jotted down variations of my married last name, I felt a surge of anger—enough to tear up the paper.

Why should my new business reflect my ex-husband's name? He contributed nothing to my efforts. This business is a testament to my hard work, and I refuse to associate it with his name.

I realized then that it was time to close that chapter and let go of a name that represented my previous insecurities. I have transformed into a strong, self-reliant single mother of three wonderful children, and I’m proud to say that I’ve launched my own business.

Subsection 1.1.1: A New Identity

This brings me to the pivotal step I took yesterday...

I confidently entered the courthouse and reclaimed my maiden name. After eight long years, I was finally prepared to embrace this change. This act symbolizes my commitment to shedding emotional burdens, regaining control, and affirming my identity.

Starting a business requires self-assurance and clarity of purpose. I believe that adopting my maiden name will bolster my confidence as I embark on this entrepreneurial journey.

Some may consider a name change trivial, but for me, it signifies a fresh beginning—a chance to reconnect with the spirited young woman I once was.

Chapter 2: Rediscovering My Strength

In the video "How to Rebuild Your Identity After Divorce," viewers can learn strategies to redefine themselves after significant life changes, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and growth.

The video "Finding Yourself After Divorce" explores various paths to rediscovering one's identity and purpose following a divorce, encouraging viewers to embrace their new reality.

I get to be that strong, fearless woman once again—the one who pursued a nursing degree, moved to a bustling city to work at a prestigious teaching hospital, and earned a master's degree. Now, as I shift from being a nurse to a business owner, I am empowered by the strong woman I have become.

I’ve regained my passion and am eager to see what lies ahead in this exciting new chapter of my life.

Hello! I’m Lauren Jane Powell! I’d love to hear from you, ladies! How has changing your name impacted your life? Have you ever reverted to your maiden name post-divorce? Please share your experiences in the comments!