You and your spouse might agree to remain in the family home until the divorce is finalized. However, being on the same page about your living arrangement does not mean it will be easy.
Here are three tips that can help you:
Have separate spaces
You and your spouse can create separate spaces in the house. For example, one of you can move to the guest bedroom while the other remains in the master bedroom. If your home is more spacious, you can live on separate sides.
Further, consider discussing how you will use communal areas, such as the living room, kitchen and laundry area to reduce interactions that could potentially lead to conflicts.
Respect each other’s personal spaces
Once you have chosen personal spaces, you should respect them. Avoid going through each other’s things or accessing each other’s spaces without permission. It can help to start viewing your spouse as your roommate or neighbor.
Talk to the kids
If you have children, besides informing them about the divorce, let them know about your new living arrangement and routines.
Additionally, create a co-parenting plan despite still living under the same roof. Who will drop off and pick up the kids to and from school on certain days? Who will cook for them on Monday? Who will help them with homework on Thursday? Who will watch a movie with them on Saturday? and so on.
Different reasons contribute to some divorcing couples choosing to live together in the family home. If this is your case, obtain adequate information to avoid costly mistakes.
