The divorce process can potentially involve high levels of conflict. Often, issues such as property division and business ownership may be highly contentious. Furthermore, when children are involved, both parents may disagree about what is in the best interests of the child.
However, the reality is that parents will have to maintain some sort of relationship after a divorce. It can be beneficial for everyone if communication between parents remains amicable. Outlined below are three strategies for reducing conflict in co-parenting.
Focus on the future, not the past
Often, it can be challenging to let past events remain in the past. There may have been distressing circumstances that led to the separation in the first place. Nonetheless, where there is no danger to the child, it may be beneficial to try and move forwards, rather than looking back.
Remember that personal wins aren’t important
Often, parents can become concerned with scoring points against one another. However, this is unhelpful to anyone involved. Co-parenting generally requires significant levels of cooperation as well as some compromise. It may be beneficial for the child to see that parents are able to remain civil both during and after their divorce.
Communicate in a way that works for you
At times, parents can find it difficult to get along over the phone or in face-to-face meetings. Typically, communication in these scenarios requires instant responses that leave no time for reflection or carefully chosen words. Frequently, parents find text messaging or email services to be a helpful means of communication. These methods allow each party to take some time to think and craft more careful responses.
Considering how to manage conflict both during and after divorce could be in your best interests. As a spouse in Florida, it is also important to remember that you have legal rights that can protect your parent-child relationship.
