Following a divorce, it can feel overwhelming, if not impossible, to converse with your ex. Unfortunately, if you have children, you must find a way to make things work if you want to raise your kids together.
To coparent effectively, you have to be open to communicating with your ex.
Utilize technology for most conversations
Most people find it easier to communicate over text and email. Texting gives you more opportunities to think about what you want to say. It also allows you to track the conversations. Tracking essential milestones, appointments and activities with your children may be easier.
Avoid talking when emotional or stressed
Sometimes emotions can cloud a person’s better judgment. You may say things you do not mean or become petty if you are upset. If you feel overwhelmed by a topic or stressed about a conversation, step back. Give yourself time to think about how you want to respond and only do so when you can talk calmly, without emotions getting in the way.
Be an active listener
Listen to what your ex has to say, even during a disagreement. If you shut down conversations with your ex-spouse, he or she will likely do the same. Having mutual respect for one another can go a long way when raising your children. For example, if your ex wants to take your children on vacation during your week, you may want to hear out his or her reasons why. Active listening allows you to be more present during a conversation.
When you are civil and listen to your ex-partner, he or she has a higher likelihood of listening to you when you need it.
