There is not a single person who has not been told to “take the high road” at some point in their life. It could have been a well-intended suggestion from a colleague at work, a close family friend, or even their parents. And, honestly, taking the high road is a classy way to handle most situations. Rather than stoop to someone else’s level or behave irrationally in a difficult situation, it is best to turn the other cheek, let go of resentment or blame, and be the better person.
But most people would likely agree that taking the high road with your divorce is easier said than done.
Divorce is a significant, life-changing event. It tests our emotions and pushes us to the brink as we try to understand the legal process, our internal fears about the outcome, and why our soon-to-be-ex is being so petty with every decision. It would be much easier to kick, claw, scratch, and match fire with fire…
Well, not always. Taking the high road with your divorce has its benefits in the long run. Here are 5 ways to do that.
Do not take the cheese
If your spouse is pushing your buttons or continually stokes the flame by saying mean things to you, resist the temptation to retaliate or break down emotionally in front of them. I know this is easier said than done, but the best way to show your inner strength and prove they do not have power over you or the situation is to simply do nothing at all. Just imagine the look on their face when you take a deep breath, smile, and walk away.
Be open to negotiating
You and your spouse may not agree on much as it is, and perhaps their attitude toward everything is only making things worse. Instead of closing yourself off in response and dragging out the process, even more, be civil — even when they do not deserve it. Treat them with respect, give a few inches when it comes to the small things, and show that you are willing to work through some of the bigger demands. Doing so speeds up the divorce process so you can both move on.
Do not make a big deal out of the small things
To piggyback off the previous item on this list, be easy to work with. If your spouse needs specific visitation arrangements because of their work or asks you to rearrange your schedule, do it. Making a big deal out of the small things is certainly not the way to take the high road with your divorce.
Do not point fingers around the kids
Be kind, honest, and sensitive when discussing things with your children, and do not stand in the way of them having a great relationship with their other parent. Even though you are getting divorced, you will still have a relationship with your ex-spouse as co-parents. So in the meantime, do not play the blame game, avoid trying to make yourself look better than the other parent, and do not use anger and resentment to get your point across.
Resist the temptation to destroy your spouse’s life
If you have been wronged in your marriage, it can be extremely tempting to spare no expense in making your spouse’s life miserable financially, emotionally, legally, and even in public. But in the grand scheme of things, is it worth it? Consider taking the high road by only doing what is necessary to get divorced and go your separate ways.
Call Nelson Law Group today!!
If divorce is the answer, you need a trusted advisor to guide you through each stage of your divorce and help you deal with the fears that naturally come with that. The Nelson Law Group brings nearly two decades of experience in family law to each and every case. We work diligently to achieve a result that ensures you receive what you are entitled to as you move forward onto the next stage of your life.
Give our knowledgeable staff here at Nelson Law Group, PC, a call if you have any further questions regarding this or any other issue. Our staff is always available. Give us a call today! For more information about Brett A Nelson, click here.
