Divorce means separation of everything: emotions, properties, music albums, and all marriage-related concerns. Once you sign the papers, it’s “Adios!” to your ex. And there’s nothing better than bidding a high-conflict divorce adieu.
But then, you remember the kids.
If you had it your way, you’d rather do without the ex and gain sole custody. It’s better to just hire a local Colorado Springs child support lawyer than share the kids. The court, however, agreed to joint custody, and so did you. After all, it’s for the best interests of the children.
How can you survive joint custody with a high-conflict ex?
Be Realistic
It’s tempting to believe a harmonious relationship is a possibility, but it’s best to be realistic. You might never understand or please your ex-spouse (in fact, this might be the cause of your marriage troubles). Prepare yourself for the reality of a challenging co-parenting adventure.
The sooner you let go, the faster you’ll learn to function better.
A better coping skill is a must-have to navigate your way through a high-stress custody arrangement successfully.
Stay Private Whenever, Wherever
In some occasions, the ex might be casual all of a sudden. Surprising and inviting as it may seem, resist the urge to participate in such conversations. As much as possible, discuss topics related to the kids. As of now, the ex is not your friend, and they might collect information against you.
Protect yourself from a manipulative ex by maintaining your privacy. Remember: they can use the information against you; be careful.
Stop the Drama
When the drama begins, ALWAYS take the high road. Parents who prioritize the kids never participate in hissy fits or screaming matches; they think about the kids first. Stay positive and just focus on what the children need. Also, work on your personal development.
Joint custody with a combative ex can be a pain in the neck, but it’s not about them anymore. Always remember: it’s all about the kids.
You’ll be fine; you’ll see.