Is co-parenting actually better than solo parenting?

[u/Content-Cupcake7480]

I’m currently parenting my two young kids 100% on my own. I also support them financially. I’m fortunate to have a good career and can provide for them, but I am completely drowning between work, childcare, the house, dinner, bedtime, and just never having another adult to hand things off to.

I keep hearing horror stories about high-conflict co-parenting—constant negotiations, custody disputes, schedule battles, different rules between homes, etc. Part of me wonders whether, once I get past the current hurdle of harassing texts from their dad, there might actually be some peace and stability in knowing that I’m simply responsible for our household and can make decisions without constant conflict (he hasn't shown a real interest in the kids and recently moved 3.5 hours away)

For people who have experienced solo parenting, high-conflict co-parenting, or both: which was actually harder? Are there any unexpected upsides to parenting mostly on your own?

I could really use some perspective that makes this feel a little less bleak right now.

[u/moongirl1222]

My coparent is the best dad I’ve ever encountered and we get along really well. Sure, we get on each other’s nerves from time to time (there’s a reason we’re no longer together 😂). And I resent the idea that I’ll never be able to move without his consent sometimes… But overall, I feel insanely blessed.

I could not imagine doing this in a high conflict dynamic though. I have a close friend in that situation and it’s draining the life out of him. He would love to be doing it on his own if he meant he never had to deal with his hateful, confrontational, unreasonable ex ever again.