I'm new here, but have been reading lessons and posts. So... .what I am specifically having trouble with is this... .
Any time I make plans with or without my partner, as the date/time approaches he will either be angry, which makes me a nervous wreck & walking on eggshells not to mention him keeping me awake and exhausted, or else he will give me the silent treatment. In the past, I've tried just doing what I want to do, but it feels like I'm made to "pay for it" later with angry outbursts. Or if I give up my plans, he's not happy anyway. Basically it just sucks making any plans at all as it causes so much stress for me.
I've tried so hard to be a stable influence on our young child, and to keep plans that I make, but it feels like I keep getting beaten down (verbally and emotionally). We are supposed to start a road trip to visit family tomorrow (just me and my child), but I am getting the silent treatment, with a few angry outbursts peppered in. My plan is to just leave tomorrow, even if this behavior continues. BUT, history has shown me that he will drink all night, keep me awake with yelling and accusations, then act like I'm abandoning him and taking his child away from him. This leaves me emotionally beaten down and exhausted - not a good way to start a long drive.
Are there any tips for making these events/plans go more smoothly? Anything I can try differently? I've tried giving him advance notice, being extra kind and attentive/validating this time, but he just ignored me completely except for the few times he blew up (throwing things and making huge messes in areas I just cleaned, for example).
Or just any advice or words of encouragement? Thanks for reading.