Mental Triggers and Activators: Rewiring Your Brain With Emotional Intelligence

Triggers and Activators Are More Than Buzzwords: We clarify that “triggers” (or “activators”) are events that alter our nervous system, often deeply rooted in past traumas, not just everyday disappointments.

In this conversation, Jeff shares a personal story about how traumatic events from our past, big or small, can leave lasting marks on our nervous system and influence our emotions well into the future.

Our discussion takes a thoughtful look at how emotional intelligence (EQ) can help us navigate and manage these triggers, not by erasing them, but by developing new ways of thinking and responding.

We emphasize the importance of curiosity instead of judgment when reflecting on emotional responses and describe how, just like updating outdated computer software, we can “upgrade” our mindsets and beliefs to function better in today’s world.

This episode offers practical strategies, a few laughs, and a poignant reminder that while working through our triggers takes effort and sometimes outside help, the journey is well worth it, and none of us has to go it alone. Whether you’re looking to understand your own emotional responses or support someone else, there’s something here for everyone looking to grow on their EQ journey.

Here are 3 key takeaways for you:

• Triggers = Old Neural Pathways: Our emotional triggers are often rooted in past events that created neural pathways in our brains—think of it as “old software” that keeps running unless we update it through intentional effort and curiosity.
• EQ is a Learnable Tool: Emotional intelligence isn't a magic fix, but it’s a powerful, learnable skill to help us recognize, understand, and slowly reprogram our responses to triggers. This process requires work, but that’s where real growth happens.
• Curiosity Over Judgment: The first step to transforming our experience is curiosity, not blame. By exploring past emotions without judgment, we can identify which beliefs still serve us, and which need updating.

Key Moments

00:00 Trauma's Impact on the Brain

03:59 Navigating Triggers with Emotional Intelligence

07:12 Building New Neuroconnections

11:53 Curiosity in Emotional Reflection

13:28 "Rewire Thoughts, Question Core Beliefs"

18:12 "Creating Space for Energy Renewal"

21:38 "Simple Complexity of Auto Repair"

23:41 "The Insidious Influence of Wealth"

26:40 "What Happens When the Wizard's Power Fades?"

30:28 Thinking, Fast vs. Slow

In each episode, Jeff and Eric will talk about what emotional intelligence, or understanding your emotions, can do for you in your daily and work life. For more information, contact Eric or Jeff at [e-mail], or go to their website, Spirit of EQ.

You can follow The Spirit of EQ Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Android, or on your favorite podcast player.

New episodes are available on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays every month!

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Music from Uppbeat

https://uppbeat.io/t/roo-walker/deeper

License code: PEYKDJHQNGSZXDUE

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