Your Monthly Dose of Inspiration

May 2025

"Triggers Are a Gift—Being Triggered Is a Choice"

Hi Friends,

Ever found yourself spiralling after something someone said or did? Last week 
But what if that uncomfortable moment wasn’t the problem... but the portal?

This month, we’re diving into the powerful idea that triggers, while uncomfortable, are some of our greatest teachers.

I still remember the first time I sent out my newsletter. I’d poured my heart into it—crafted every word with care, trying to strike the right balance between inspiration and insight. It felt vulnerable but exciting, like I was finally stepping into the next version of myself and sharing my voice with the world.

A few days later, I had some feedback from a well-meaning relative. They’d read the newsletter, but what they said landed like a gut punch:
"'It was ful of spelling mistakes, so obviously written by chat GPtT, by the end of the first paragraph I'd lost the will to live!' (Harsh!)

I felt it immediately—the flush of heat rising, the twist in my stomach. A mix of shame, defensiveness, and that old familiar voice whispering, “Maybe you’re trying too hard. Maybe you're not cut out foer this. Maybe you are making a fool. of yourself”

I was triggered. Not because of what they said—but because of the deeper wound it touched. That fear of being too much, or not enough, of being judged, of not being good enough... they all rose up! And that was the gift - it told me something about myself that was not wanted but that I could change!

So then comes the choice: here’s what I did next:

✨ I paused and acknowledged what was happening.
✨ I noticed the story running through my head: “If I’m not accepted by my own family, how will I ever be accepted by clients?”
✨ I reminded myself: “This newsletter wasn’t for them—it was for the women who do need my voice, my message, and my presence.”
✨ I allowed the emotion to move through—without stuffing it down or making it wrong.
✨ Then I chose to keep going. I hit send on the next issue as planned a month later.

The result? Not only did that newsletter land with the right people—but it also became a defining moment. A reminder that I don’t have to water myself down to keep others comfortable. That I can hold space for other people’s discomfort without making it mean I’m on the wrong path.

 

Triggers Are a Gift—Here’s Why

Triggers feel awful because they point to something within us that’s unresolved, unhealed, or out of alignment with who we truly are. Think of them as emotional rumble strips on life’s motorway: uncomfortable, jarring—but designed to wake us up before we crash into old patterns or beliefs. Here’s the truth: we can’t always avoid being triggered. But we can choose how we respond.

From Reaction to Conscious Choice

Once we understand why something triggers us, we reclaim the power to choose our experience. Rather than getting stuck in blame, defensiveness, or spirals of overthinking, we get to ask:

Do I want to feel this way—or not?

And in that moment, we access deep emotional freedom.

Your Empowered Toolkit

Next time you feel triggered, try one of these powerful practices:

  1. Consciously reframe the situation. Ask, “What’s this here to teach me?”

  2. Feel and release the emotion instead of suppressing it. Choose love over fear and let it pass through you.

  3. Challenge the underlying thought—is it true, or just an old story you’ve been telling yourself?

The aim isn’t to eliminate all triggers—it’s to become less ruled by them.

Cool Tip / Resource

The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
This book is a beautiful deep dive into consciousness, helping you observe your inner world without getting caught in it. Perfect if you're ready to unhook from your triggers and live with more peace, presence, and power.

“There is nothing more important to true growth than realizing that you are not the voice of the mind—you are the one who hears it.”

Upcoming Events

Life by Design: The 12-Week Experience
If you’re ready to stop reacting and start designing your life with clarity, courage, and conscious intention, this intimate 1:1 coaching programme is for you.
Together, we’ll uncover the hidden patterns holding you back and create space for the empowered, vibrant version of you to rise.

Want to learn more? Watch my short video:

 

Connect with me

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If you are curious and would like to find out more about how you can create the life you were destined to live, please hop over to my calendar page and book a no obligation free consultation!

 

I really hope you got value from this newsletter. Please share with your friend and family and anyone you know who might benefit. They can sign up  and receive my monthly newsletter below:

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Final Thoughts

Your triggers aren’t flaws—they’re invitations. This month, I encourage you to lean into them with curiosity rather than judgement.
Because every time you choose awareness over reaction, you become more you—the grounded, expansive, unstoppable version of yourself.

With love and light,

 

 

 
Paula Smith