Traditionally, divorce has been viewed as a highly contested process where both spouses “entered into battle”. Nonetheless, when divorce follows this route, there are typically no winners.
Nowadays, divorcing couples are starting to see the benefits of a more collaborative process, including mediation. Mediation involves structured and low-conflict negotiations in a less formal setting than the courtroom.
With the right mindset and approach, couples can go through the divorce process relatively smoothly. Here are a few tips that can help with this.
Entering with the right mindset
A more collaborative process only works if both spouses are willing to engage. This means entering mediation with a positive outlook. Even if one spouse is unwilling to engage or cooperate, mediation is likely to be extremely difficult.
Willingness to compromise
Even in highly contested divorce cases where there is a perceived “winner”, nobody walks away with everything they want. Litigated divorces can take years to settle, and they are highly stressful. This is largely due to an unwillingness from either side to compromise.
The ability to compromise in mediation is crucial. Spouses should set their top priorities and think about areas where there is more leeway. This way, negotiations can be tackled one issue at a time.
Exercising patience
It’s natural to want the divorce process over with as quickly as possible. Nonetheless, a divorce should never be rushed. If both spouses exercise patience, mediation will likely be over much sooner than a litigated divorce. Often, a mediated divorce can be settled within a few months.
Mediation isn’t for everyone but it is certainly worth considering if you are on good enough terms with your spouse. Seek legal guidance to find out more about collaborative divorce methods.