If you have begun to seriously think about parting ways with your spouse, you may be surprised to learn that your actions during the divorce process can greatly influence the success of your divorce, as well as the effect of the divorce on your child. You have the power to transform your divorce into a positive experience, if you can observe the 3 key behavior modification tips below. Read on to learn more how to not just survive a divorce but to successfully navigate the divorce process to the benefit of you and your child.

1. Don't keep your spouse in the dark. Just as open and honest communication enhances a marital relationship, it can also do wonders for those about to divorce. Avoid blind-siting your spouse by a sudden serving of divorce paperwork; let them know about your feelings and plans as soon as possible. Set aside some quiet time to discuss your issues and come clean. It should be noted that there are some special circumstances where you may not want to "poke the bear", however. If you are a victim of domestic abuse or there is drug/alcohol abuse, criminal behavior, or other unique situations going on, keep your own counsel and ensure that you and your child have a safe place to shelter, if necessary, before your spouse knows about the impending divorce.

2. Seek marital counseling. If you and your spouse have not already done so, getting marriage counseling could help to save your marriage. When both parties agree to participate, marital therapy is never a waste of time even if you end up going forward with the divorce; the relationship coping techniques learned there can be beneficial to both of you during the divorce process as well as covering you for later relationships. It should be noted that in some locations, marriage counseling is required before you can file for divorce.

3. Stay respectful to each other. No matter what your spouse has done to ruin your marriage, verbal assaults in front of your child is to be avoided at all costs. Remember, that is the parent of your child you are conversing with, so keep your words and tone free of the frustrating emotions roiling inside, at least when your children are around. You will need to lay the foundation for a successful co-parenting relationship during the divorce process with your spouse, since children deserve to have two loving parents involved in their lives.

If your and your spouse have tried to resolve your differences and have been unsuccessful, contact a divorce lawyer for help and support during your divorce.