THREE OPTIONS WHEN THINGS GET TENSE!

In the daily busyness of family, work, and relationships, talking about things can be awkward, with many things pulling for attention simultaneously. One way to transform a harsh start to a conversation into a more satisfying exchange, which sounds simple but requires practice and agreement, is to ask before you share: Is this a good time to talk?

In the middle of a conversation, when tension is starting to rise, another option to make things better is to PAUSE, for a beat or a long moment. Tap into the calm when things get tough.

When you become flooded, either elevated to high intensity or shut down into detachment, a more substantial pause or break is needed to allow your nervous system to calm down so you can “think” instead of react harshly. Here is an option to take a break during conversations at home when either partner is getting flooded.