It’s a familiar scene: a sharp comment, a moment of frustration, and suddenly, you’re in a full-blown argument with your partner. Emotions flare, voices rise, and hurtful things are said. While disagreements are part of any healthy relationship, many could be avoided by pausing before reacting. That age-old advice—think before you speak—still holds true.
To help couples steer clear of unnecessary conflicts, psychologist Mark Travers, an expert in relationship therapy, recommends the “24-Hour Rule” for relationships.
How the 24-Hour Rule Works
The concept is simple: when a disagreement arises, don’t address it immediately. Instead, wait 24 hours before revisiting the issue. Allow the tension to dissipate. This helps avoid speaking or acting in the heat of the moment, letting you gain clarity and emotional balance first.
In an article for Forbes, Travers explains that the 24-Hour Rule isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations—it’s about creating a pause to reflect and regulate emotions. “By taking a break, you can approach the situation with a calmer and more thoughtful frame of mind,” he writes.
What to Do During That 24-Hour Pause
Simply stepping back might not suffice if your mind races. Travers suggests engaging in calming or creative activities—such as yoga, meditation, journaling, painting, or walking. “These practices help provide clarity and separate the issue from the emotional intensity,” he says.
This pause allows you to ask: Is this as urgent as it seemed? Or is there a deeper issue to explore calmly? Often, you’ll find space to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
Not Just for Romantic Relationships
The beauty of the 24-Hour Rule is its versatility. Whether with your partner, mom, boss, coworker, or friend, learning to pause before responding can transform conflict navigation.
“When you train yourself to step back, you shift from reacting impulsively to responding intentionally,” Travers explains. “This shift not only makes conflict manageable but also strengthens emotional intelligence—benefitting every relationship.”
Next time your temper rises, remember: breathe, pause, and give it 24 hours. You might be surprised by how clear things become with a bit of time and space.
Sources
- 5 Reasons To Apply The ‘24-Hour Rule’ In Love—By A Psychologist – Forbes – 25 janvier 2025
**La “règle des 24h” : une méthode simple pour une vie de couple plus harmonieuse**
This article first appeared on doctissimo.com – Author: AFP/Relaxnews
