For some people, co-parenting is a breeze, but for others, it is like a necessary evil that has to be followed through, no matter how much it hurts. Nobody wants to end up this way, especially after having held their precious baby and spending every day and night caring for them. The mere thought of the time of togetherness being spliced in half sends shudders down a parent’s spine, but unfortunately, it is a reality for many.

If you are struggling to deal with this harsh situation, we have rounded up solid advice to help you emerge as a warrior, not only for yourselves but also for your kids.

Remember That You Got a Better Deal

guillaumedegermain/Unsplash: Toddler walking hand in hand with Parent

Divorces are messy—there is no beating around the bush. The custody battles are simply hell, and there are plenty of examples in the world where the process manages to breaks a family quite effectively. If you can make co-parenting work by being cordial, then count yourself lucky.

There are many things to complain about in life, but it pays to be positive for attaining peace of mind. Your kids will not have to grow up with a loveless couple and have no scarring effects on their development. It also really puts things into perspective and makes a person stronger. When your child does grow up, they will understand and thank you for it.

Quality vs. Quantity

Mom smiling at son having fun

Instead of being down in the dumps about saying goodbye very soon, you can make the time count. Studies have shown that the kids don’t remember how much time is spent with the parents, but the memories made in the moments remain etched forever.

Take your child out for a museum tour, try baking together, reading stories, or doing whatever they love to do. Make most of the time spent with each other because they are harder to come by in your current situation.

Self-care

Maintaining mental and physical well-being is very important. It is easy to lose track of things while going through something like this. There is nothing harder than being a single parent, but your child needs you, so take care of yourself because nobody else will do it.

Self-care does not have to necessarily involve splurging on cash. When kids are not around, indulge in activities that invoke excitement. The feeling of happiness is addictive, and when your child sees you stress-free and chirpy, they will themselves be the same.

You Are Not Doing This for Yourself

invent/Unsplash: A mother is looking at her daughter with love

Never lose sight of the perception that co-parenting is not just for you but for a greater good. Anytime a breaking point arrives, remind yourself of all the reasons ‘why’ and it will keep you going. All that matters is that the child is healthy, happy, and is being brought up in a safe environment with two well-functioning adults.

Next time you feel giving it all up, give this article another read and imagine your little one’s smile when they come bounding down the steps to greet you—it can brighten any gloomy day!