Divorce can be a chaotic, confusing process. A lot is changing, and people can be coping with some difficult emotions. In this environment, setting certain boundaries can help you and your family navigate the process more easily.
A parenting time schedule
As difficult as divorce is for you, it can be even more upsetting for your kids. Suddenly, they can be seeing one parent much less or having to move back and forth between new homes. With so much instability, having a solid parenting schedule in place can be crucial.
A parenting schedule creates a predictable plan for the child. It helps them know where they will be and who will be there, which can be very reassuring for a child.
Rules for communication
Communicating with an ex may not be easy during the divorce process, but it can be necessary. Chances are, you want to avoid volatile situations, direct contact or conversations that someone misunderstands or later denies.
You can establish rules for communicating with each other to eliminate or minimize these uncomfortable or upsetting exchanges. For instance, you might decide to only communicate in writing or through your attorneys.
Privacy protection
Resolving divorce-related legal matters can make you feel vulnerable, and the legal process can reveal private, personal information about parties. While some of this is unavoidable, there are ways to protect your privacy during this time.
Some ways to do this include:
- Unfollowing each other on social media
- Refraining from entering each other’s homes
- Changing your online passwords
- Removing your ex’s access to things like Netflix, video doorbells and GPS devices
These measures can keep others from accessing sensitive information.
Financial, emotional or physical boundaries can provide the framework and protection you need when you are going through a divorce. While it can be difficult to establish healthy boundaries, doing so can help you navigate a complicated time and improve your well-being.
