Personal preference: Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels right for the individual. Some women may feel more comfortable using their maiden name, while others may prefer to keep their married name.
Professional considerations: In some fields, using a consistent name for professional publications can be beneficial. This can help to build a strong brand and ensure that readers can easily find your work. However, in other fields, it may not be as important.
Practical considerations: If a woman has built a significant professional reputation under her married name, using her maiden name could lead to confusion. Conversely, if she has started a new career or field after her divorce, using her maiden name could help her establish a new identity.
Legal considerations: In most cases, there are no legal restrictions on using either name. However, it's always a good idea to check with a lawyer if you have any concerns.
Here are some things to consider when making your decision:
* How long ago was your divorce? If it was recent, using your maiden name could help you to move forward with a new chapter in your life.
* What are your professional goals? If you are trying to establish yourself in a new field, using your maiden name could help you to stand out.
* What are your personal preferences? Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose the name that you feel most comfortable with.
Here are some examples of how other women have handled this situation:
* Some women use their maiden name as a pen name. This allows them to keep their professional and personal lives separate.
* Some women use their married name professionally but their maiden name for personal writing. This allows them to maintain their professional identity while also expressing their personal side.
* Some women use both names. This can be a way to acknowledge both parts of their identity.
The most important thing is to choose the option that feels right for you. There is no right or wrong answer.