Personal Triggers
In this episode, we explore what it really means to be “triggered” at work and why those reactions often have deeper roots than we realize. We unpack how past experiences shape present behaviors and share practical ways to build self-awareness and regain control in the moment. We also highlight how reflection and intentional pauses can transform how we respond under pressure.
Key Takeaways
Triggers Come from Within, Not the Situation: What feels like an external trigger is often rooted in past experiences or internal beliefs—understanding this is key to change.
Name It, Then Ask Why: Identifying the emotion (beyond just “anger”) and repeatedly asking “why” helps uncover the true source of the reaction.
The Pause Creates Power: Pausing—whether for seconds or minutes—allows you to shift from reacting emotionally to responding intentionally, reducing regret.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and community poll results on workplace triggers
01:30 Poll breakdown: last-minute changes, feeling ignored, lack of clarity
02:07 Defining what a trigger actually is
03:27 Carrie's personal story: years in a male-dominated sales environment
08:14 The role of self-awareness and self-regulation in emotional intelligence
09:25 Unpacking the "last-minute changes" trigger — Daniel's personal reflection
12:08 Anger as a secondary emotion — what's really underneath
13:18 Three-part framework: identifying, understanding, and managing triggers
15:23 How to identify a trigger in real time
16:40 Understanding your trigger: the "ask why five times" approach
19:43 Management strategies: pausing, removing yourself, leaning on trusted people
21:35 What to do when you can't leave the room
23:30 Wrapping up: reclaiming power from your triggers