Are you a single mom working with your ex to give your child a happy childhood? Then congratulations… you are co-parenting!
If you’re like most single moms, you didn’t set out to be co-parenting. Very few of us do. And the great news? That’s okay!
Co-parenting can be tough. And yet, there are some easy ways to minimize the stress, and emphasize the positive.
In this three-part series, we’re talking about how to make co-parenting the very best it can be.
Tapping Into the Positive
Here are a few easy ways to start reinventing your co-parenting experience, so it can be more rewarding for both you and your ex.
First, Embrace Your Situation
Boy, it’s easy to wish for an easier, less complicated, more traditional family situation. Many of us find ourselves gazing longingly at nuclear families thinking, “why can’t that be me…?”
And yet, every family has challenges. The big secret? Even those folks who look like they’ve got it made… they’re struggling too.
We all face different challenges. One of the biggest steps towards happy co-parenting? To embrace the situation you are in. Give up wishing wistfully for something else, and fully embrace what’s right in front of you.
Next, Find Your Strengths
You and your ex have amazing skills and talents. Maybe you’re great at coordinating your co-parenting schedule. Maybe you rock at creating two, loving households for your child. Or, maybe you’ve overcome financial challenges together.
Acknowledge those strengths - out loud - about yourself and about your ex. By giving yourself a pat on the back, and by letting your ex know that you notice and appreciate thier efforts - you’ll be taking leaps and bounds towards a positive co-parenting experience.
And of Course… Develop Your Weaknesses
Is it difficult to let go when your child is at the other parent’s house? Do you have a tough time coordinating homework assignments between two homes?
Co-parenting will test your limits, challenge you, and it will reveal parts of yourself you may not have ever noticed before.
The good news? You are being given an incredible opportunity. You have the chance to discover and develop your weaknesses - so you can emerge stronger and more resilient than before.
The Positive Starts with You
You have the power, the intelligence, and the strength to create a positive co-parenting situation. Start by embracing your situation, finding your strengths, and developing your weaknesses; and you’ll be on your way to a happier and more rewarding experience.
Summary of Parts II and III: Part two of this series focuses on finding the guidance you need for success, and in part three, we discuss how to set intentions and work towards your goals.
