Time Out!

We have all reached the point in a conversation where we can no longer stay tuned in and attached to our mate. Feeling flooded and defensive, we are now more preoccupied with our own feelings and internal message than that of our mate. It’s okay, under these circumstances, to gently ask for a little time to soothe your troubled emotions. It’s okay to pull back, breathe, take a walk or pray so that you can resume the conversation. In fact, this is your responsibility. Take time to get into an emotional space where you can listen attentively, non-defensively to what your mate is saying to you. 

Dr. David Hawkins, MBA, MSW, MA, PhD, is a Christian Clinical Psychologist and Director of the Marriage Recovery Center.  He has helped bring healing to thousands of marriages and individuals and is passionate about working with couples in crisis.  If you need help, please reach out to his Client Care Team at 206.219.0145 or through their website. Dr. Hawkins is also a speaker & trainer for the American Association of Christian Counselors and is a best-selling author of over thirty books including Never Fight Again, Gauranteed and When Loving Him is Hurting You.  He has two grown sons, is happily married to Christie Hawkins, and lives on Bainbridge Island, outside Seattle, WA.