Asking for a time-out works best in conversations with those with whom you already have a certain amount of intimacy and can actually strengthen your connection. By being honest with our conversation partner, we show that we trust they will understand where we are coming from; we show the same honesty and vulnerability we hope they’ll share with us, too. Consider, for instance, the following phrases: I hate to do this, but I think I need to stop. I am exhausted and having a hard time focusing. This conversation is important to me, but I’m having trouble hearing you at the moment. I think I
...more
