As you navigate the unknowns of your divorce, prioritizing the needs and well-being of your children trumps your list of concerns. Working toward arranging and finalizing a functional custody agreement may require extra sacrifice on your part to help you establish a responsible reputation with the court.
The way you interact with your children and communicate with your former spouse may influence the outcome of your custody effort. Understanding the correlation between your behavior and securing custody may help you to proceed with confidence.
Acting irresponsibly
The courts look for parents who exemplify commitment and understand their responsibility to care for and support their children. According to verywellfamily.com, behaviors that may hinder your efforts to win custody include the following:
- Abusing drugs or alcohol
- Oversharing details of your divorce
- Inconsistencies in your behavior
- Canceling or showing up late for visitations
- Ignoring court requests
- Encouraging parental alienation
Building your reputation
As you work toward finalizing your child custody agreement, commit to treating your former spouse with respect and civility. Upholding your integrity even when you feel frustrated with his or her behavior may help you to stay neutral. Engaging in eccentric behavior may unintentionally draw attention to negative aspects of your life and hurt your effort to establish your reputation as a parent.
Focus your time on maintaining a consistent and stable routine for your children. Protect their interests and encourage them to communicate with you about their concerns. Share information about the changes in your family in an appropriate manner depending on the ages and maturity of each of your children. Strengthening your resolve to provide the best life for your children despite the changes in your family’s dynamic may make all the difference in your effort to maintain a permanent relationship.
