Trigger Warning
Our everyday vernacular has a newish word that isn’t really defined well so we can use it in lots of scenarios. The word trigger used to be reserved for old cowboy movies and horses. We have hijacked it to stand for something that basically sets us off from our usual human way of acting. There needs to be a debate on the best definition. But the word gives us a great chance to be triggered to get something done. Let’s make a trigger list. Try and make a list of everything that sets you off, angers you, frustrates you, makes you feel unworthy or brings up some other lack. You might need a big piece of paper to brainstorm but try and include everything.
Trigger Happy
The second list to make is the trigger list that makes you happy or having feelings of gratitude or love. I know, what a concept. This list is hopefully as long as the last one. I think this list should include all those adorable little things that encourage laughter and sweet tears. I cannot watch some commercials without breaking out in tears if they include some heart-warming images and cute videos with dogs and cats cuddled up together can keep me busy for a hot minute. Even bill paying can be on the happy list because it relieves stress.
Trigger Finger
The question is how to keep your trigger finger from pulling back if the result is not one of the happy thoughts. The possibility that you could actually stand out in the middle of a dusty main street with your best (and only) pair of boots on with your hand poised above your trigger should give you a visual indication of the seriousness of this choice. We don’t want to hurt anyone else or ourselves but that is usually the end result of itchy fingers. We need to be able to pause and think about the consequences of our decision and take advantage of the fact that there is actually time to make the best selection.
The List
This is a great list to keep working on; adding and crossing out triggers is exciting. Eventually you may uncover that you just have a couple of things that really make you angry and lots of ideas that make you smile. The more often you consider the response that creates each feeling, the easier it gets to see where the triggers come from. If there are some leftovers from childhood or past relationships or provided by current bosses, they can each be examined to see if you really want to keep them in your story. The autopilot reflex will slow down with time and your fast-acting brain will let you decide if the situation needs to be a shootout or a trip to the saloon for a sarsaparilla.
Do you defend your right to trigger? Can you create as many positive triggers in your life to finally give up your hold on the negative ones? Have you dealt with the negative ones or do you wear them as a badge of honor?
