Do You Need a Time-Out?

While walking through the store yesterday, I heard a parent asking their child this question. Obviously it was in response to a behaviour issue the child was facing, but the question got me thinking.

When was the last time you took a time out?

Do you know when you need to take one?

As adults, we no longer have the privilege of someone telling us that it's time for us to take a moment to ourselves. We have to be aware of our feelings and frustrations at all times, and know when it's time for us to walk away.

Just because no one tells us to take a time out anymore, doesn't mean we shouldn't. If you find yourself getting frustrated, exhausted, angry, or any other negative emotion, maybe it's time to walk away for a few minutes.

Step away from the situation, go somewhere quiet, and breathe. In through the nose, out through the mouth, until you feel yourself returning to a state where you can face the situation again calmly, and in a more positive frame of mind.

Even though you're a grown up now, there's no shame at all in taking a toddler-sized time out when you need it.