Even if the decision to dissolve the marriage is mutual, divorce can still be emotionally and financially taxing. Divorce becomes even more challenging when you share children together.
Divorce can become particularly draining if your spouse has a personality disorder, like narcissism. Here are a couple of tips that can help you successfully navigate the divorce process if you are dealing with a difficult spouse.
Steer clear of negative intimacy
Make no mistake, narcissists know how to make life difficult. Anytime you get into an argument with them, you will be serving them exactly what they need to fuel the fire: your attention.
This toxic dynamic is known as “negative intimacy.” The key to divorcing a difficult spouse is to avoid getting caught up in their toxicity. The less you engage or respond, the better.
Avoid in-person meetings
It is highly likely you will not see eye to eye with your soon-to-be-ex on most matters pertaining to your divorce. To avoid frustrations and potential conflicts, consider channeling all communication through your legal representatives so that you can keep things focused on the business at hand.
Put the kids first
Make every effort to keep your children out of your differences with your spouse. Of course, it is not unusual for a narcissist to try to turn your children against you or use them to blackmail you.
Even if your children know this about your ex and are resentful, do not badmouth or openly criticize your ex in front of the children. your ex may as well capitalize on this and use it against you during the child custody case.
Divorce can be a trying period for everyone involved. Find out how you can safeguard your rights and interests while dissolving your marriage.