If you are involved in a custody dispute due to the breakdown of a relationship, you’ll likely be experiencing a wide range of emotions. Uncertainty about the future relationship with your children can trigger anger, frustration, a need for control and ruthlessness. In addition, you’ll also have to deal with the breakdown of your relationship and navigate a productive way of communicating with your ex. Naturally, this is a difficult time.
Many parents allow these conflicting emotions to govern the way that they position themselves in a child custody dispute. They may approach the process with anger and determination to get their way at all costs. While this approach is understandable, it’s also important to step back from the situation and reflect on your priorities. When all is said and done, everyone’s priorities should be centered around what is best for the child, and this is how the child custody courts make their decisions. Therefore, it’s to your advantage to put your child first in a child custody dispute. The following are some tips for doing so.
Put yourself in your child’s shoes
You may be quick to assume that having full custody of your children will be best for your child because you believe that you are the better parent. But have you really taken the time to put yourself in your child’s shoes? If your child has a good relationship with both parents, they will want to retain a sense of normality, and they need to feel safe, secure and loved by both parents.
Take out your personal feelings toward your ex
Whatever personal feelings of resentment, anger or heartbreak you have regarding your ex, these should be taken out of the equation when it comes to issues of child custody. You need to put the best interests of your child first.
If you are currently going through a child custody dispute, showing that you are putting your child’s needs first could help you to be successful.
