You may have never pictured yourself getting divorced, but this is a common experience for many people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that in 2018, 782,038 divorces and annulments occurred in the U.S.
As you start the divorce process, you may have a hard time communicating with your spouse, even if your relationship is still amicable. These tips can help you and your spouse communicate effectively, so you can settle your divorce faster.
1. Watch your tone
While speaking with your spouse about child custody, child support, property division and other issues, it is important to watch the tone of your voice. If you are angry or sarcastic, your spouse may be less willing to work cooperatively with you.
If you are angry or upset, you should also wait to speak with your spouse about your divorce. Going into a conversation while angry may not produce the results you want.
2. Lay down boundaries
You and your spouse are likely very familiar with each other, so it can be difficult to set boundaries for your divorce. Before you get too far into the process, decide on rules for how often you will speak with each other and what form of communication you will use.
3. Focus on the present
Bitterness about past grievances can taint the divorce process and make it harder to move on. As you work through issues relating to property division and your children, try not to let former issues affect the process and your ability to make progress.