dis·il·lu·sion·ment
[ˌdisəˈlo͞oZHənmənt]
NOUN
1. a feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be.
Sound familiar???
When it comes to blended (step) families, disillusionment is a common thread. When the reality and challenges of this new life begin to overwhelm, we begin to question ourselves, our decisions, our feelings, and even our new spouse.
For example, your spouse’s dedication to their children was honorable while you were dating, but now it’s an issue in your marriage; a child that was once living in another home decides to live with you; your parenting styles differ much more than you expected which is causing added stress to the already stressful situation.
This new family is stuck between each individuals past and the new couples dream for the future, but before you get to this future, you have to deal with the many obstacles along the way.
- Achieving marital closeness after being hurt
- Parenting and step-parenting roles and rules
- Dealing with ex-spouses and co-parenting issues
- Helping children emotionally/spiritually
- How to integrate extended step-family members
- Handling sexual pressures between stepsiblings
I can add more to the list, and you may be struggling with something not mentioned, but don’t let these COMMON troubles change the direction of your heart.
Blended Families can make it, it’s the journey of searching for this new family identity that will allow you to have the family you envisioned…..
- A happy and healthy marriage, which in turn creates happy and healthy kids
- Cooperation between the homes that will result in well-disciplined kids, kids that want to do the right thing and find joy at each house
- Respect and care between step parents and step children
The rewards of making it through the beginning years of a blended family go beyond these that are mentioned. When you come out on the other side you will have children and step children that see two people that are committed to their marriage and their new family. They will see two people who love one another and maintain a win-win attitude and figure out what is best for the entire family. You will have a marriage that has a stronger bond due to your commitment to one another to make it through this tough beginning stage.
Don’t wait any longer to begin your journey toward a happy and healthy family. Text, call, or fill out the form on this page. I look forward to meeting you. 🙂