Don't know if this will be useful, but here's a formula that I've come to use when ex is being difficult:
1. Don't ask open-ended questions as that leads to long-winded and frequently off-topic answers. Instead of "What would you like to do?", make a proposal and let them propose an alternative within a specified time frame. E.g. "I propose we do xyz. If you would like to suggest an alternative, please do so by Date". This doesn't guarantee smooth sailing (see my recent threads on holidays!) but I found it cut down on noise.
2. Ask direct closed-ended or yes/no questions. Provide alternatives, not open-ended inquiries. Ask "Are you bringing Kid before or after x o'clock?" or "I suggest that you bring Kid at x o'clock. Is this all right?" rather than "What time will you be bringing Kid?".
3. Be polite but never ever mention emotions - yours, ex's, Kid's, nobody's. Imagine you're dealing with FedEx arranging for pickups and dropoffs of freight.
1. Don't ask open-ended questions as that leads to long-winded and frequently off-topic answers. Instead of "What would you like to do?", make a proposal and let them propose an alternative within a specified time frame. E.g. "I propose we do xyz. If you would like to suggest an alternative, please do so by Date". This doesn't guarantee smooth sailing (see my recent threads on holidays!) but I found it cut down on noise.
2. Ask direct closed-ended or yes/no questions. Provide alternatives, not open-ended inquiries. Ask "Are you bringing Kid before or after x o'clock?" or "I suggest that you bring Kid at x o'clock. Is this all right?" rather than "What time will you be bringing Kid?".
3. Be polite but never ever mention emotions - yours, ex's, Kid's, nobody's. Imagine you're dealing with FedEx arranging for pickups and dropoffs of freight.
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