Losing someone you love is never easy, and the road to healing can feel uncertain and overwhelming. But what does it mean to rebuild a life that feels whole after loss? Is it about forgetting the past, or is there another way to move forward?
As someone who has walked this path, I can tell you that rebuilding your life is not about erasing the memory of your loved one or pretending that life is “back to normal.” It’s about finding new strength, new purpose, and achieving a sense of balance for yourself and your family in the face of unimaginable change.
In 2013, I became a widow and found myself raising three kids alone while navigating the challenges of shifting careers and building a business. The grief, the adjustment, the feelings of uncertainty—it was all overwhelming. But slowly, with time, I began to piece together a life that was both fulfilling and meaningful, even in the midst of profound loss.
Later, I met Jim, a divorced dad of three, and together, we blended our families. Just when we thought we were finding our footing, Jim faced another devastating loss—the passing of the mother of his children.
Through these experiences, Jim and I have learned countless lessons on navigating life’s big transitions, and we want to share them with you. Rebuilding a life after loss is not about “getting over it” but rather about finding a new sense of purpose, healing in unexpected ways, and building the resilience to embrace your new normal.
The Journey of Healing: Finding New Purpose
When you’re in the midst of loss, it may feel like there’s no way forward. But over time, you’ll find that strength doesn’t come from “forgetting.” It comes from honoring your grief, embracing the changes, and opening yourself up to new opportunities for growth.
In my own journey, I learned that finding purpose after loss meant revisiting my values, understanding what really mattered, and figuring out how to make space for these things while I rebuilt my life. I also had to accept that the balance I once had might not be the same as before—but I could still create a new sense of balance that worked for me.
Building Resilience Through Community and Support
No one should have to go through the journey of rebuilding alone. One of the most important lessons I learned is the power of surrounding yourself with supportive people who understand your struggles and can help you rise. Whether it’s family, friends, or professional advisors, support is crucial for healing.
When Jim and I blended our families, it wasn’t just about merging households; it was about creating a supportive environment for our children, for each other, and for ourselves. Loss has a way of making you realize just how much you need connection—not just with the people who share your blood, but with those who genuinely see you, support you, and lift you up.
Thriving in Career, Parenthood, and Life After Loss
Life after loss doesn’t have to be a life of struggle and survival. It can be a life of thriving, even in the face of hardship. Jim and I have both navigated this difficult terrain—not just in our personal lives but in our careers as well. Building a business, shifting careers, and finding new work-life balance are all part of the process.
After I lost my husband, I knew that I had to take control of my career and my financial future. Rebuilding was not just about personal recovery—it was about redefining how I wanted to show up in the world, both for my kids and for myself.
And then, when Jim lost the mother of his children, I saw him embrace this challenge with strength and compassion, realizing that the same principles of resilience and finding purpose applied to every aspect of life.
The Importance of Financial Planning Through Major Transitions
While rebuilding after loss is very much a personal and emotional journey, one thing that Jim and I both agree on is how crucial it is to address the practical aspects of life during these big transitions—especially your finances. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with everything on your plate, but taking small steps to ensure your financial foundation is secure can offer confidence.
Whether you’re navigating widowhood, remarrying, or blending families, it’s important to have a plan in place. Financial planning during times of change may include reviewing your estate planning documents, updating beneficiary designations, and ensuring you have the right protections in place for your family’s future.
Finding Hope, Healing, and Direction
As we share our stories and lessons learned, our goal is to offer you a sense of hope, healing, and direction. Life after loss can feel like an endless series of “what now” moments, but with the right support, guidance, and resilience, you can build a life that feels whole again.
This journey is never easy, but through the pain, there’s an opportunity for growth, healing, and even joy. You are not alone, and with time, you will find that your story can be one of thriving after loss, not just surviving.
If you’re ready to start the journey of rebuilding, or if you simply need guidance along the way, I’m here to help. I offer personalized financial planning that can help you navigate life’s transitions with confidence, clarity, and purpose.
Take a step forward today—and remember, you’re stronger than you realize.
Need further financial guidance?
Book a complimentary no obligation call and we can discuss a plan to help you move forward with confidence.
Donna understands first hand that life has many transitions. Having been widowed suddenly at age 40, reinventing her career, and blending her current family, she understands these unique needs and can give you clarity for moving forward!

Donna (Sephton) Kendrick, CFP®, CDFA®
This blog is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information on the subjects covered. It is not, however, intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For specific professional assistance, the services of an appropriate professional should be sought. A diversified portfolio does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.
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