How to Stay Civil With Your Ex-Spouse

Divorce Lawyers Rockville MD

Your divorce may be finalized, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be seeing your ex-spouse anymore. If you share custody of your children, you’ll probably be around your ex quite often. If you still have ill feelings toward your ex, the idea of being nice and respectful might seem impossible. However, the more civil you are, the easier things will be on everyone. Here are some pointers recommended by divorce lawyers in Rockville MD for help in staying civil with your ex:

Think Before You Speak

Remember when you were a child and your mother would tell you to think before you speak? Well, this is good advice to go by right now. Before you blurt out anything, take a moment to think about what you truly want to say and if your words will be respectful or not. This will help you avoid saying unkind remarks and then regretting it later.

Remember That Your Ex Is the Parent of Your Children

No matter how angry you may be with your ex, it’s important to remember that this person is still the mother or father of your children. If you say a lot of unkind remarks to your ex and your children overhear, it can negatively affect them.

Be Flexible

If you are willing to be flexible with your ex, things should go a lot smoother. For example, if your ex wants to change your child’s visitation schedule one week, try to be accommodating. If you have to do the same in the future, your ex will be more likely to be flexible with you.

Stop Thinking About All the Things Your Ex Did Wrong

It’s easier said than done, but try not to think about how angry you are at your spouse all the time. If you constantly replay the conversations you’ve had with your ex in your head, you will never be able to get past the divorce and get on with your life. Try to focus on productive things, so you’re not always thinking about your ex.

Leave Your Children Out of It

The last thing you want to do is stress your children out. They may still be upset over the divorce and you don’t want to cause them anymore pain. When you are angry with your ex, don’t let your children see it. Don’t say bad things about your ex in front of them.

Don’t Go Out of Your Way to Be Unpleasant

If you are still so angry with your ex, you may want to be as cold and unpleasant as possible while he or she is in the same room. This doesn’t do anyone any good. Try to be the bigger person and treat your ex with respect.

Being civil toward your spouse may be a little difficult at first, but it is possible. Making the effort to be respectful and kind will be better for everyone. If you have any further questions about dealing with your ex, contact one of our divorce lawyers Rockville MD clients recommend.