We’ve all had that moment. It could be a crisis at work or in a relationship, trouble with kids or finances. Is that the right moment to pick up the phone and ask for coaching? Maybe not.

When calamity strikes, it’s important to take a moment to absorb the shock. For some of us, that process is best done in private. Take some time, breathe, be quiet, find a safe space and stay there. Sometimes, our safe places are with friends and loved ones, but for many of us, a safe place is protected and private. That’s when it’s good to have a panic room.

What’s a panic room? It’s a place or an activity that’s safe. It could be a yoga class, church, a vigorous workout at the gym, reading, meditating, daydreaming, even your bed—it doesn’t matter. A panic room is fortified; no one can get in. We all need a safe place to reconnect with ourselves, to adjust to changing circumstances, to let things settle.

A crisis is an opportunity—we’ve all been told that—but to gear yourself up to create or recognize an opportunity, you have to be ready. So, stay in your panic room until you’re balanced and calm.  Once you’ve absorbed the shock, and the emotional sting of the crisis has lessened, that might be the right time to reach out to a friend. Just make sure your feet are on the ground and that you’re feeling less vulnerable, and more curious about what the future has in store for you.