I was financially dependent on my ex-husband. Post-divorce, I taught myself about money and built a 6-figure business.

• Beth Keeton, the founder of Elephant House PR, was married and divorced by age 24.
• After leaning on her ex-husband, she taught herself financial literacy and started her own business.
• She now mentors women, enjoys financial independence, and is in a happy and supportive marriage.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Beth Keeton, a 34-year-old publicist in Fort Worth, Texas. It's been edited for length and clarity.

After the crumbling of my marriage, a divorce, and landing back on my feet, I started my own business.