There is a new trend, and it’s a little unexpected: divorced couples are now posting “Divorce Selfies” online using the hashtags #guesswhosdivorced or #divorceselfie.
The trend highlights couples who are working really hard to make their divorce a more positive split than the traditional notion of disastrous divorces. Ending a marriage does not have to be the end of a relationship: particularly where children are involved.
“Here’s to the most friendly, respectful and loving split imaginable. We smile not because it’s over, but because it happened,” newly-divorced Keith Hinson added to his #divorceselfie on Instagram.
Let’s do it for the kids
The #divorceselfie showcases newly-divorced couples who are parting on good terms. This is especially important for parents who need to create a positive home environment for their children during – and after – this difficult time.
“We couldn’t make our marriage work, but there’s no reason to fight,” said one couple on Instagram. “Fresh starts and happy endings are for everyone,” wrote another.
In a situation like this, children will benefit from a positive emotional environment and amicable attitudes. It will help them to process this new significant life change, and will put them in a healthy position without having to choose one parent over the over as so often happens. They won’t be burdened with fighting, debating and yelling.
“We have respectfully, thoughtfully and honourably ended our marriage in a way that will allow us to go forward as parenting partners for our children,” wrote one couple. “They’ll never have to wonder which side of the auditorium to run to after their Christmas concert or spring play because we’ll be sitting together. They won’t have to struggle with their wedding planning because we’ll be sitting on the same side of the aisle — their side.”
At Evolve Family Mediation, we recognise that it can be very hard for a couple whose relationship has broken down to find a new way of relating to each other. That is why through mediation we work hard to help couples communicate, to diffuse conflict, and at a time when emotions are often running high, help them to build a new and different type of relationship that focuses on the needs of any children and on reaching fair agreements for all concerned.
If you would like to find out more about how mediation could help you. Please contact us by email to rmg@evolvefamilymediation.co.uk or by phone to 01923 431601 or 03339 398404.