Esther Calling - To Forgive My Ex-Husband I Need to Forgive Myself First
Mar 31, 2025
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A young divorcée grapples with anger and frustration as she navigates co-parenting with her ex-husband. They discuss the emotional challenges stemming from past traumas and the intricacies of communication that strain their relationship. Self-forgiveness emerges as a critical theme in healing and fostering healthier connections. The conversation delves into the cycle of blame and personal responsibility, emphasizing the need for reflection to break negative patterns. Ultimately, it's about evolving communication to support their children's well-being.
50:37
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Quick takeaways
The caller's struggle with co-parenting is exacerbated by poor communication and unresolved anger rooted in past traumas.
She expresses a desire for personal growth and healthier interactions with her ex-husband to create a better environment for their children.
Deep dives
Navigating Divorce and Co-Parenting Dynamics
The complexities of divorce are illustrated through one person's experience with her ex-husband, highlighting how their separation was complicated by his quick shift into a new relationship. Following their decision to break up, he began dating another woman while still living with his ex, creating tension and feelings of threat. This overlapping timeline hindered their ability to heal together and establish a clear boundary as co-parents. The caller articulates her struggle with communication, feeling that defining rules against private discussions only exacerbates the challenges they face in co-parenting their two children.
Communication Breakdown and Emotional Responses
The lack of communication between the caller and her ex-husband has led to misunderstandings, frustration, and emotional outbursts, primarily centered around the well-being of their children. She expresses that anger often manifests when she feels excluded or dismissed, especially during interactions involving their kids. Despite recognizing this pattern, she acknowledges her difficulty in maintaining emotional control, particularly when emotions run high. This breakdown in communication signals a wariness from both sides, as each party anticipates negativity, reinforcing their inability to engage positively.
Addressing Personal Growth and Relationship Patterns
The caller reflects on her past relationship approach, revealing that she sometimes resorts to shaming tactics in attempts to elicit empathy from her ex-husband, which ultimately leads to frustration. In recounting her experiences, she realizes that her childhood has influenced her responses, particularly the anger rooted in fear from past familial interactions. This self-reflection prompts her to express a desire for positive change, not only in her interactions with her ex but also in her overall emotional well-being. She aspires to break the cycle of her old habits and adopt a more constructive demeanor for the benefit of her children.
Seeking Help and Creating Positive Change
Recognizing the need for support, the caller acknowledges that professional guidance could help her navigate the complexities of her relationships and personal frustrations. As she aims to shift her behavior, she is encouraged to focus on fostering a healthier communication dynamic with her ex-husband, promoting kindness rather than conflict. By taking gradual steps towards emotional regulation and self-awareness, she can influence her co-parenting relationship positively. Her commitment to change signifies her desire not only to improve her own life but also to ensure a better environment for her children.
Esther talks with a young divorcée about the challenges of co-parenting with her ex-husband while wrestling with feelings of anger and frustration. They explore the impact of her past traumas and the difficulties in communication that have led to this strained relationship and how to evolve for the sake of her kids.
Esther Callings are a one time, 45-60 minute interventional phone call with Esther. They are edited for time, clarity, and anonymity. If you have a question you would like to talk through with Esther, send a voice memo to producer@estherperel.com.
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