Blended Family Breakthrough

33. How to Cope with a Difficult Ex and Protect Your Kids


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We all want to have an easy, peaceful co-parenting relationship with our Ex — mostly because we want to protect our kids and ensure they aren't caught up in drama or conflict.  

We don't want to feel like our kids are the ones suffering the consequences of our disagreements with the Ex.

But, when the Ex seems to constantly insist on being difficult no matter the situation, it's exhausting!  And if we're really honest with ourselves, their poor behavior starts to tempt us to lash out and retaliate…even though we know that's not the best thing to do.

I know how that feels.  I spent way too many years dealing with some of the ugliest accusations and being dragged through the family court system for no good reason.

It took me a long time to discover effective ways to keep the conflict contained (as much as possible) and keep my sanity in the process.  And some of what I discovered is what Mike and I are sharing in this episode.

So, if you've been struggling with a particularly difficult Ex, this is the episode for you.  We're going to give you some specific strategies and even some scripts you can tweak to fit your unique situation…

…and we've made it really simple for you to access that right here…just click below to grab your free copy of our "Cheat Sheet" that goes along with this episode:

You'll Discover:

  • How to move beyond unrealistic expectations of your Ex
  • Key strategies of conflict containment
  • A healthy mindset to keep you from 'Taking the Bait'
  • How to use appropriate boundaries around harassment
  • What to do when negotiations become manipulative and toxic
  • How to stay calm and secure when painful emotions get triggered
  • What you can do to protect your kids from harmful conflict 

Resources from this Episode:

  • Episode 027:  How to Set Clear Boundaries and Safeguard Relationships
  • We mentioned this blog article:  'Parental Alienation' - A Heartbreak for Unknowing Parents
  • Episode 007:  Toxic Exes and Hurting Kids - 5 Steps That Help
  • Episode 008:  Toxic Exes and Defiant Kids - A Simple Strategy Against Lies and Slander

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Blended Family BreakthroughBy Mike & Kim Anderson

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