Debby Pfaff Embraces New Chapter After Divorce
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Debby Pfaff, 49, is facing a notable life transition after ending her 22-year marriage to Nicolas Liébart, 44. In a recent interview, Pfaff shared her perspective on the divorce, emphasizing her focus on the future and the unwavering support of her loved ones.
While declining to delve into the specifics of the separation, Pfaff offered a poignant reflection on the past relationship. “What counts is a new kind of shared future,” she stated. “Not as husband and wife, but as parents. We have shared many lovely moments and brought two children (Keano and Liam) into the world. I am still very aware of how that shared past is valuable for both of us. Whether we were unhappy together for a while or how the relationship ended: that doesn’t matter.”
Pfaff acknowledged the emotional toll of the divorce, but highlighted her determination to move forward. “I’m getting to know myself again,” she shared. “I don’t want to make it a good news show, but a divorce is more than mourning and sadness. It is indeed also a license to finally put yourself in the foreground again.” She candidly admitted, “I am not a robot. Of course I shed tears,” describing the challenges of navigating social events alone after years of attending them as a couple. “Sometimes Nicolas was the one who pulled me along, at other times I pushed him out the door. Suddenly you are standing there alone, among all those people, and you realize: the only way is forward.”
The strength Pfaff displays is deeply rooted in her strong family bonds. “At times when I wanted to sit on the couch like a potato chip, I called my sisters or friends,” she revealed. “Did you know that your smartphone automatically turns off if you call for more than two hours? I’m talking to Kevin, my manager and good friend, I’ve experienced this four times in quick succession. I wish everyone had such a network. Even one person who wants to listen until thier hair turns gray makes a world of difference.” her ability to maintain a positive outlook, even amidst hardship, is a testament to her resilience. “Switching off emotions because you know what the option is if you allow them: it ensures that you do not collapse,” she explained.”And I also tackled my divorce in a similar way: allowing the emotions, but consciously not getting stuck in them.It is indeed a way to remind yourself that the sun eventually drives away even the most stubborn winter gray. Always.”
Pfaff concluded by expressing gratitude for her past relationship. “I don’t see our divorce as a failure,” she stated. “Those two beatiful children alone have made everything worth it. The past two decades have made me truly happy.Though, there turned out to be an expiration date on that happiness. Is that a reason to throw away the memory of that relationship or consider it as a waste of time?”
Pfaff’s story resonates with many facing similar life transitions, offering a message of hope and the importance of self-finding and strong support systems. Her journey underscores the complexities of relationships and the strength found in navigating life’s challenges.
Finding Herself: Debby Pfaff on Divorce, Motherhood, and a New Chapter
Debby Pfaff, daughter of Jean-Marie and Carmen Pfaff, is embracing a new chapter in her life following a divorce. Her journey, marked by years of dedication to family, now pivots towards self-discovery and personal growth. This resonates with many American women who juggle the demands of family and career, frequently enough prioritizing others’ needs above their own.
Reflecting on the past, Pfaff shared, “I’m in the middle of a healing process in which I have to figure out a different future for myself. The past few years have been all about my family. I have given myself away to some extent to raise my children and give them every possible possibility. That’s how it should be, and I did it with all my heart, even more, I would do it again.But I now want to change the tendency to put myself in the background, a trait I have always had, a bit.”
Her perspective on divorce is refreshingly positive.Instead of viewing it as an ending, she sees it as a beginning. “The boys are now 18 and 20 years old. I also have to let them go a bit so that they can build their own lives. Although they know that Nicolas and I, even though we are divorced, will always be there for them,” she explained. This sentiment mirrors the evolving understanding of family dynamics in the U.S., where co-parenting and maintaining positive relationships after separation are increasingly common.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Pfaff expresses a desire for self-actualization beyond her roles as a partner and mother. “I want to show that I am more than a partner or a mother,” she stated. “And along the way I will laugh at my mistakes that are as certain as they are indispensable. Laughing at your own misery is a beautiful antidote even in the darkest days. Love also helps. I hope she finds me again one day, in as casual a way as last time.” Her resilience and self-awareness offer a powerful message of hope and self-acceptance, particularly relevant to women navigating life transitions in the U.S.
Pfaff’s story is a testament to the strength and adaptability of the human spirit.Her journey of self-discovery,following a significant life change,offers inspiration and a relatable narrative for many Americans facing similar challenges. Her emphasis on self-care, personal growth, and maintaining positive relationships, even amidst adversity, provides a valuable lesson for us all.
Finding Yourself After divorce: A Conversation with Dr. Emily Carter
Dr. Emily Carter, a licensed psychologist specializing in family transitions and relationship dynamics, discusses the complexities of divorce and offers valuable insights into navigating this challenging life stage.
Senior Editor: Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us today. Debby Pfaff’s recent interview about her divorce resonated with many readers. It highlighted the emotional rollercoaster, the shift in identity, and the importance of support systems, which are all common themes in divorce. What are some of the initial challenges individuals often face after separation?
Dr.Carter: It’s understandable why Debby Pfaff’s story resonates.Divorce is a major life transition, filled with upheaval and adjustment. Initially, people often grapple with intense emotions: sadness, anger, grief, even relief.They may experience a sense of loss, not only of the relationship but also of shared dreams and the life they envisioned. There’s also frequently enough a renegotiation of identity. Who am I now that I’m no longer a spouse?
Senior editor: Pfaff mentioned the importance of a strong support network. How crucial is that during this time?
Dr. Carter: Crucial. Humans are social creatures, and having a supportive network of friends, family, or a therapist can make a world of difference. It provides a safe space to express emotions, process the changes, and receive practical and emotional support.
Senior Editor: Debby Pfaff described a deliberate choice to focus on the future and self-discovery.
How can individuals navigate this shift in focus?
Dr. Carter: That’s a healthy approach. It’s natural to grieve the past, but dwelling on it can be counterproductive. Focusing on the future allows individuals to explore their interests, set new goals, and rediscover who they are outside the context of the marriage.
Senior Editor: Pfaff also mentioned “switching off emotions” at times to avoid getting overwhelmed. Is that a healthy coping mechanism?
Dr. Carter: It’s a bit nuanced. While it’s vital to acknowledge and process emotions, sometimes taking a temporary break from intense feelings can be helpful. Think of it as putting on a metaphorical “pause button” to avoid getting overwhelmed. However, it shouldn’t be a long-term strategy. Healthy coping involves allowing yourself to feel emotions, express them in constructive ways, and ultimately process them.
Senior Editor: For someone going through a divorce, what are some key pieces of advice you would offer?
Dr. Carter: Be patient with yourself. Healing takes time. It’s important to:
Allow yourself to grieve the loss of the relationship.
Lean on your support system.
Focus on self-care: prioritize physical and emotional health.
Seek professional help if needed. Therapy can provide valuable tools and support during this difficult time.
* Remember that you are resilient and capable of moving forward to a fulfilling future.
