Everybody knows single parenting is tough, especially when you’ve just emerged from a painful divorce. But just because it’s hard doesn’t mean it can’t be successfully done. If you’re one of those about to pick up the pieces after a failed marriage, taking care of children single-handedly could be one of the most taxing challenges you’ll ever have to face. Your responsibility as a parent doesn’t stop even when you’re at your lowest.

Here are ways on how to make single parenting work for you – even as you’re mourning your marriage’s untimely death.

Make a mental note and set your sights.

There is a likelihood that you may decide to carry the burden of raising your child or children alone. You may think that your former partner won’t share the obligation of being a co-parent to your child or kids and that may not be a far-out possibility. But it’ll be unhealthy for you to try shouldering the whole weight of the world. Instead, try to pause and make a mental note, list the things you have to do and prioritize, then set your sights to do them, to finish and accomplish these things that need to be done. Rank them and decide what’s best for your offspring/s. After all, the well-being of your kids is paramount in this crucial situation. Your ability to set your priorities straight (which should rightfully revolve around your child or children) can make or unmake the future of your kids.

Spare your child the blame game.

As much as possible, never compare any action or behavior of your child to that of your former spouse or partner. Instead, bring out the best in your special one. Shower your child with love and let him or her grow socially and spiritually. And as much as you may be coaxed to blame and badmouth your ex, for whatever quirk your child may have, better not do this in front of your kid.

Remember that your offspring is a product of your erstwhile relationship, of both of you parents. Trashing your ex or washing whatever conjugal dirty linen you have had before your kid’s eyes will actually smear him or her deeper inside. Before you know it, creating this deep gash in your child’s heart may last a whole lifetime, flushing whatever confidence he or she may have as the years go by.

Put on a brave face.

Breaking up is hard to do for young lovers, but is even harder among married adults. But when it comes to being a single parent to your child, it is best to put up a brave face and exhibit an affirmative attitude. As much as it hurts inside, anything negative you radiate outside will eclipse over your child’s action or behavior. Instead, project a ray of hope and sunshine, which will reflect in your child’s outlook in life.

But if dissolving a marriage is not yet for you, if you are unsure of your next steps, try to brush up some readings on the pros and cons of divorce.

If you are ready to move forward with your divorce, you can read the reviews of some of the best divorce forms services online.