This video highlights the negative impact of using "but" in apologies and discussions. When someone sincerely apologizes, then adds a justification, it can make the apology feel insincere. Avoiding "but" fosters more productive conversations and better outcomes. Start with apologies and expand this mindful approach to other discussions.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
If your divorce mediation is on pause because your spouse needs time to process the separation, here are steps to ensure a timely return. First, set a firm date to resume mediation after the pause and stick to it. Second, consider whether to help your spouse with housing or budgeting based on your relationship dynamic. Lastly, acknowledge your own emotions and seek support if needed, whether through therapy, a support group, or friends. Use this time to focus on your future and prepare proposals for mediation.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
If you're struggling with separation during a divorce mediation pause, consider seeking additional support. If you're in therapy, ask your therapist for more resources. Look for local divorce support groups or online resources. A divorce coach can also help you navigate the process. You might even ask your spouse about couples counseling — not to reconcile, but to assist in separating.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
Taking a break from divorce mediation can sometimes help a couple to progress. Recently, a couple struggled to move forward after two and a half meetings. The husband hadn't fully processed the separation and was not emotionally prepared, unlike his wife, who had been considering it for some time. A three-month pause allowed him time to reflect. For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
If your divorce mediation feels stalled despite progressing at your desired pace, consider taking a break. Often, decision-making challenges stem from one spouse's state of flux, such as career changes, uncertainty about living arrangements, or hesitance about the separation. A pause can provide clarity and focus when mediation resumes. In an upcoming video, I will share an example of how this approach worked in a recent case.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
If you're spending a holiday without your kids, consider recreating a holiday experience when your kids return. Wear pajamas, open gifts, and have a big breakfast no matter the time of day. For Thanksgiving, you could host a Friendsgiving with your kids' friends or loved ones. The key is to make the time together enjoyable and memorable, even if you weren't together on the exact holiday.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
When co-parents express a desire to spend holidays together, it's often a positive sign, especially for the children. However, it would be wise to add a default provision to your agreement in case it doesn't work out in the future. With a clear plan in place, you won’t need to return to mediation to revise your arrangement.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
The complexities of holiday scheduling for separated parents can be overwhelming. In mediation, parents can choose a particular holiday that holds special significance for them, and negotiate to celebrate that holiday every year. If both parents prioritize the same holiday, they can split it—one parent has the children the night before and the first half of the holiday, while the other takes over the second half and overnight. Mediation allows for flexible, creative solutions that consider the needs and interests of both parents.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
This video shares insights for separated parents on creating holiday schedules that accommodate both parties. It begins with a common approach: alternating holidays each year—one parent takes even years, the other odd years. This straightforward method is fair and easy to manage. However, life changes may require flexibility, such as visiting relatives or blending schedules with new partners' families.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.
Couples should use caution when considering drafting their separation agreement. While it might seem cost-effective, mediators provide more than just a template — they offer legal information, help evaluate options, and ensure both parties understand the consequences of their decisions. Without mediation, an agreement might be rejected by the court or lead to future disputes which can result in greater legal costs than if mediation had been used initially.
For more information about mediation, divorce, and family law, check out my website — ClarePiroMediation.com.