Although the divorce rate has dropped in recent years, 45% of couples will eventually file for divorce.
Are you and your spouse at the breaking point? If so, you’re probably dreading the divorce process — especially if there are children involved.
The good news is that not all divorces involve screaming and fighting. All you need to know is how to divorce amicably and go your separate ways in peace. If you want to know how to have an amicable divorce, here are four tips that will help.
Avoid the Blame Game
No doubt you and your spouse were happy, in love, and compatible at the beginning of your relationship. Then, over time, things changed.
There are a million reasons why couples drift apart and a million reasons to file for divorce. To keep things amicable, avoid pointing your finger at your spouse. Stay focused on the future rather than dwelling on mistakes — big or small — from the past.
If you have children, place them at the forefront of your decision-making. This is an excellent opportunity to teach them the power of respect, cooperation, and resilience.
Respect Your Spouse
An amicable divorce involves keeping your emotions in check. Even if you no longer love your spouse, you can still act in a calm and loving manner during the divorce process.
Actively listen to your spouse and try to understand their viewpoint. Remain calm even if your spouse starts pointing fingers or getting combative. Avoid posting anything negative on social media, and always pause and think carefully before responding to any texts or emails.
Consider Mediation
Movies and TV shows love to portray couples battling it out in divorce court. An amicable divorce process doesn’t have to involve judges, hearings, or the courts.
Instead, take control of your divorce with the help of a neutral third party. A divorce mediator can help you calmly and rationally reach decisions about your assets, your children, and your future. It costs much less than hiring lawyers and it also keeps the details of your divorce private.
If mediation sounds like the answer for you, you can get more info about how the process works.
Take Care of Yourself
It’s easy to get lost in a spiral of negative thinking and bad habits during a stressful time like a divorce. To keep things amicable, make sure to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Eat well, spend time outside, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. Keep yourself in a positive mindset by writing in a gratitude journal, meditating, talking with a therapist, or anything else that helps you feel centered.
How to Have an Amicable Divorce: Now You Know
No one likes to think about the process of getting a divorce, but it becomes the reality for many couples.
Luckily, it doesn’t have to be a nightmarish battle. Use the amicable divorce checklist presented above to keep things civil and ensure the best outcome for both parties.
Now that you understand how to have an amicable divorce, what’s next? Our site contains more helpful lifestyle advice, so stay right here and continue browsing.