Do not make a decision while emotion takes up all space

During a conversation someone begins to cry and another becomes increasingly angry. The content is no longer heard. The facilitator proposes to interrupt the conversation and continue at an agreed time. Nothing is dismissed. They choose a better moment to continue speaking.

What can improve in this conversation if you only continue when you can again truly listen and respond?

Emotion belongs to difficult conversations. But when no one can absorb information anymore, extra arguing usually does not help. A pause can then be more careful.

Not every emotion makes consultation impossible. Sadness, anger or tension can be present while a conversation still proceeds well.