The Exact Words to Use When Things Start to Escalate

When conversations with your adult child start going sideways, it can feel impossible to know what to say in the moment. In this video, Sally Harris shares 3 practical phrases that can help de-escalate tension, protect the relationship, and shift communication away from confrontation. If you constantly feel like conversations turn into arguments, shutdowns, defensiveness, or emotional exhaustion, this video will help you learn healthier ways to respond without abandoning yourself or your adult child. Inside this episode: • The "Pause Phrase" that slows emotional escalation • The "Exit Phrase" for leaving a conversation peacefully • The "Redirect Phrase" that shifts tension into communication • What NOT to say during difficult conversations • Why emotional maturity changes family dynamics over time • How to communicate without constantly defending yourself This is especially for moms navigating: Estrangement Emotional distance Walking on eggshells Difficult conversations with adult children Conflict and disrespect Anxiety before phone calls or visits Fear of saying the wrong thing 💛 Remember: your goal is not to win the conversation. Your goal is communication — not confrontation. 📍Join Sally at the upcoming RISE Retreat in Utah (June 12–13, 2026) for deeper healing, connection, and support with other moms who truly understand this journey. 📞 Want support navigating your specific situation? Learn more about Sally's Heart-to-Heart Consultation — a guided call to help you find clarity and direction in your healing process. https://www.sally-harris.com/H2Happ 🙏 You are not alone in this.   BE A CALLER ON THE SALLY HARRIS SHOW email: [email protected]    EMPOWER MOM QUIZ: www.sally-harris.com/EmpowerMom    CONNECT WITH SALLY HARRIS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/sallyharriscoach/ FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/coachsallyharris WEBSITE | https://www.sally-harris.com