Couples Conversation – Do You Need a Timeout?

 

A timeout in marriage is a way to regroup, cool off, and think about how to move forward. “Take a timeout” is good marriage advice when you’re stuck in the cycle of arguing about the same thing over and over again.

Some important things to think about when you call a timeout are as follows:

1. When to call a timeout

You need to know the right time to call it.

2. When not to call a timeout

You can’t call it if makes the conflict worse.

3. What a timeout is not

A timeout is not a way avoid the issue.

4. What to do during a timeout

The timeout is a way to breathe and think calmly about the situation so you can move forward.

Have you ever used a timeout during arguments with your spouse? How did it work?

 

Keith Dent is a certified relationship coach and the author of In The Paint – How to Win at the Game of Love. If you like leave a comment, or reach out at info@keithdent.com if you are having challenges in your relationship and dating life.

Couples Conversation – How do you react to Conflict?

Alicia Keys and Swizz Beats recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary. In a recent blog post on BET, the couple mentioned they never have raised their voice to each other.

In a blog written by Douglas Ernst, he stated that.

Raising your voice does denote anger, but a healthier way of conveying that feeling is to simply say, “I am angry.” If you say what you mean and mean what you say with your spouse on a regular basis, then that statement alone will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.

So I would love to know. When was the last time you raised your voice to your spouse? Did you get the satisfaction you were looking for? Did the problem get resolved?