Triggers...

Triggers... are the little things that cause us to relapse back into negative behaviors or thought patterns.

Learning to recognize the "people, places, or things" that help nudge us into compulsive actions are vital in any recovery plan...
It does not matter "what" you are recovery from... sex, drugs, drinks, pills, food, or a toxic relationship.

It is a scientific fact that being able to identify "triggers" will help the chances to sustaining a recovery from whatever addiction you are trying to treat.

Now lets be more specific....

Let's say you are a drinker and you have actually... not been drinking... but all of a sudden one day you are with your family at the local park.... here comes Dale, the guy you could ALWAYS count on to save you a seat, at your favorite bar.
As soon as you see Dale... ALL of your thoughts are focused solely on DRINKING.
It's absolute tunnel vision.
Now you do not have to act on those thoughts but chances are.... you may.

A coke addict who has been clean for 3 to 4 months and is just riding in the car with sober friends when the classic Eric Clapton song COCAINE comes on the radio and the friends have no idea that just listening to that song has triggered thoughts of lines cut across a table.....

The same for someone who is trying to discontinue a relationship that YOU KNOW is toxic. You will hear a song or even smell a cologne or perfume that is similar to that of the person you are trying so hard to stay away from... and boom... memories of "good times" will flood your mind and take over your thought process.

Look I do not have a secret to rid you of your "triggers" the point is to acknowledge them so you are prepared.
You will not be able to avoid ALL triggers that is impossible!

I spoke to woman who has been divorced for over 30 years, but there are STILL triggers that cause her to have obsessive thoughts over her ex husband... and she left him!
Just the act of being aware of what the "triggers" are or what they may be... will help you to rationalize the obsessive thoughts that will instantly flood your mind!
Make a list of "triggers" and how you felt.... keep adding to it as you progress with your recovery.

So the lesson for today is simple....
Acknowledge that "triggers" exist! Identify the "triggers" and realize that you have the strength to overcome the thoughts and feelings that "triggers" cause.