EASILY RATTLED?

Here are some simple habits to stop life’s triggers from rattling you

- Seniors Today Desk

Life has a way of testing us when we least expect it. A sharp word from a family member or a friend or even the domestic help, a traffic jam and some unskilled driver cutting you on a sweltering day, disturbing news you've heard or read, or a sudden reminder of a past hurt can spark emotions that linger far longer than we'd like. These triggers can drain our energy, cloud our judgement, and sometimes make us act in ways we regret.

The good news is that while we cannot stop life from throwing challenges our way, we can choose how to respond. Here are fifteen practical ways to keep calm, regain perspective, and rise above life's triggers.

Pause before reacting:

When you feel your temper rising or anxiety building, take one slow deep breath. This tiny gap between stimulus and response gives you a chance to decide how you want to act, rather than being driven purely by emotion.

Identify your patterns:

Notice when and where you tend to get triggered. Is it during family gatherings? In heavy traffic? With certain people? Once you know your patterns, you can prepare for them.