324. Emotional Triggers: Understanding Your Brain and How to Keep It in Check

Mar 4, 2025

Ever snap at your partner over something trivial, only to regret it later? Discover the fascinating world of emotional triggers and how they can escalate minor annoyances into major disputes. Learn about the brain's role in these reactions and explore mindfulness strategies to manage your responses. Hear about effective techniques for setting personal boundaries and maintaining emotional well-being. Plus, find out how personal accountability can lead to greater happiness in your relationships. It's all about taking control!

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ANECDOTE

The Yard Compliment

A wife felt criticized when her husband complimented their neighbor's yard.
Her reaction stemmed from past insecurities, not his intention.

ADVICE

Pause and Breathe

Pause and breathe deeply when you feel a trigger.
This calms your nervous system and allows rational thought.

ADVICE

Challenge Your Thoughts

Challenge your thoughts and reactions.
Ask yourself if your reaction is based on the present or past experiences.

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Ever found yourself snapping at your partner because they left the toilet seat up (again), only to realize later that your reaction was a tad... over the top? Or maybe you’ve just quit your job because you were so mad that Bob from accounting didn’t get you that spreadsheet on time? Congratulations, you've met your emotional triggers. These are the knee-jerk reactions that can turn minor annoyances into full-blown soap operas. But fear not! By understanding what's going on in your brain, you can learn to keep your cool and maybe even laugh about it later. Today, you’ll learn what emotional triggers are, the science behind them, and my top five ways to soothe those emotional triggers so you can feel in control of your life.

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Full blog and show notes: https://abbymedcalf.com/emotional-triggers-understanding-your-brain-and-how-to-keep-it-in-check

Grab my FREE Mindfulness Starter Kit: https://abbymedcalf.com/ret

Learn how to create and hold healthy, loving boundaries. Buy my book on Amazon, Boundaries Made Easy: Your Roadmap to Connection, Ease and Joy: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries

AND/OR pick up The Workbook: Boundaries Made Easier to use as a companion to the book or as a standalone masterclass: https://abbymedcalf.com/boundaries-workbook

Want to feel happier and more connected in your relationship? Buy my #1 bestselling book on Amazon, Be Happily Married: Even If Your Partner Won’t Do a Thing: https://abbymedcalf.com/book

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Looking for past episodes of the Relationships Made Easy Podcast? Head over to https://abbymedcalf.com/podcast-the-archives where you’ll find past episodes.

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