Can a Divorce Really Be Friendly?
The answer to the above question is a highly gray area. While divorce is one of the most contentious situations anyone can find themselves to be in, it is possible to have a friendly divorce — but it will take some work. You may not be able to control how your soon-to-be ex-spouse handles the ups and downs of the divorce process. However, there are some steps you can take to make the process go much smoother and limit conflicts.
Here are seven ways you can keep your divorce amicable.
1. Practice Self-Care
Divorce is stressful, and when you feel relaxed, you can feel much better about approaching your ex when it comes to sensitive issues you don’t see eye to eye on. Having peace within yourself and remaining calm is the key to diffusing tenseness when facing a difficult conversation. A self-care routine may include:
- Participating in activities that you enjoy
- Exercise regularly
- Eat healthy foods
- Make time to get together with family and friends
- Read a book
- Practice mindfulness
- Take a bubble bath
- Go for a walk
- Get plenty of sleep
- Speak kindly about yourself
- Learn a new hobby
2. Keep Realistic Expectations
While you have rights, it is essential to remember that so does your ex-spouse, as well as any children that will be affected by your divorce. Understanding that you will need to be agreeable and negotiate specific terms can keep the divorce in a more amicable light.
3. Be Reasonable
It can be easy to fall into a whirlwind of emotions when reliving some of the problems and frustrations in your marriage. Even when your spouse is displaying unreasonable behaviors or isn’t working towards peaceful resolutions, it’s critical to remain calm. No matter what led to your divorce, it’s critical to respect your ex-spouse’s frustrations as you both will have them. If there is a dispute or disagreement, let your attorney know so they can handle it for you.
4. Don’t Talk Negative about Your Ex in Front of Your Children
Sadly, children often feel the effects of divorce, and when one parent speaks ill of the other in their presence, it can make them feel like they must choose sides. Of course, it’s normal to want to vent out your frustrations and talk about how you are feeling, but it’s important to remember that children love both parents, and this situation is just as difficult for them as it is for you.
5. Wait to Send Responses
When going through a divorce, it goes without saying that an ex can get under your skin and make you angry. When it comes to less than amicable communication, such as a heated text or email, wait to respond. Think carefully about how you will react or answer if it will create a back and forth conversation without any resolution. Diffusing an angry text can make all the difference in keeping a peaceful state of mind and discussion with your ex-spouse.
6. Try Divorce Mediation
Divorce mediation can be an excellent alternative to traditional divorce. It involves one mediation lawyer representing both the husband and wife to work out the divorce details, including child support, custody, dividing assets, or other legal family matters. It can make the process less volatile and is a gentler, less stressful approach to divorce. There are many benefits to mediation, such as:
- Less expensive than a traditional divorce - Couples concerned about the financial ramifications of a divorce often choose mediation as a cost-effective alternative that can have the same results as a litigated divorce. When both parties are agreeable and are willing to work out their problems without going to court, it can make all the difference in divorce costs.
- Saves time - Mediation can take up to 9 months (in some cases more, depending on your situation) for the divorce process to complete. Litigation can take up to two years or more to settle.
- Keep your privacy - Divorce litigation hearings are open to the public. Mediation does not require going to court, so all the details of your divorce are kept private.
7. Don’t Take Legal Advice From Family or Friends
We all know someone who’s already been through a divorce, but every divorce is different. While your family and friends may have good intentions and want to help you get through a difficult time, leave the divorce advice to your lawyer. When you have questions or concerns about divorce proceedings, the process, and what to expect, your attorney will guide you in the right direction. Having the wrong information can put stress on your situation, which can, in turn, interrupt the peaceful and amicable resolution you are looking for.
Considering Divorce? We Are Here For You.
The divorce process is by far not an easy one. When emotions run high and you and your ex-spouse disagree, it can make the situation much more challenging to deal with. However, knowing you have a divorce lawyer in your corner to protect your rights and the best interest of your children can help ease your fears and calm your stresses. At Owenby Law, P.A., our team of experienced family law attorneys is ready to guide and support you through a challenging time. Let us help you get started so that you can move forward with your life.
To learn more about our firm and how we can help you contact us today at (904) 770-3141 free initial consultation.