Divorce can be an emotional and painful process for people. These emotions can make it difficult to have peaceful divorce process. However, there are some strategies you can try for de-escalating conflict. These strategies can help with keeping your divorce moving smoothly and calmly…
De-escalating Conflict: Reducing Tensions
Take your time
Some people try to rush through their divorce as fast as they can. They want it to be over quickly, and think they’ll save more money too. However, rushing allows for your emotions to take over your thinking, potentially leading to conflict and costly mistakes. That’s why taking your time is crucial for de-escalating conflict.
It helps to take some time to formulate a general plan for your divorce. A good plan will help you figure out your goals for your divorce and keep your costs down. Plus, it’ll give you some time to process those emotions you’re feeling, so you’ll be able to prevent them from getting in the way of your decision making.
Be respectful
The tone you take with your ex also goes a long way for potentially de-escalating conflict. Being hostile or combative with your ex can just lead to endless arguments between the both of you. However, if you take a more respectful and polite tone, odds are you’ll decrease any tension. This will let you have good and positive conversations about your divorce.
Also, make sure you listen to your ex’s side as well. It’s important to hear what they’re looking to get out of the divorce. This will let you know what areas you might be able to easily cover, and which ones you might need to find a compromise for. If you block them out, that will increase tension and lead to future arguments.
Apologize when needed
Sometimes, people will say some mean on nasty things to each other when emotions are running high. All too often, this happens between former spouses and it derails the divorce process. One or even both will refuse to apologize, choosing to solely blaming the other person instead.
That’s why being able to apologize is important for de-escalating conflict. Apologizing isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it shows that you know when you might’ve gone a bit to far and feel bad about it. Being able to really apologize will help show your ex your remorse and that you’re serious about finding a good agreement.