Stress Triggers & Management Techniques

UPDATED 04/28/2025

Stress triggers are everywhere and are different for everyone. What are your triggers? If you don’t know them, I encourage you to find out. Here are some that might ring a bell:

But don’t think all stress triggers are bad. Some of the above actually cause good stress, also known as eustress. How you handle your triggers is basically what matters more than anything.

If you’re feeling stressed out, stress triggers can take you out emotionally and your behavior can just be off. They can make you feel crazy sometimes. But if you face them head on, you can conquer your stress. There are four techniques I use regularly that help me keep my stress at bay:

1. Movement – I move my body, either strenuously or simply, and it lets me blow off steam. It could be a HIIT workout or just a walk in nature. Either way, movement helps exercise your muscles and reduce the feelings of stress.
2. Breathing – The breathing exercise I turn to every single time is the 4-7-8 breathing technique I learned from Andrew Weil. You breathe in for a count of 4, hold it for a count of 7, and then breathe out for a count of 8. It can induce a small sense of euphoria and big sense of calm.
3. Journaling or Free Writing – There’s something about grabbing a notebook and just getting your thoughts out on paper. It’s almost freeing. The notebook and the pen doesn’t offer judgement but it does allow you to get rid of some of the things piling up in your brain.
4. Creating Systems – System are huge for managing your stress. Not only will they help give you some organization, but they allow you to plan for what may come and will help you create habits that keep you sane.

Take some time to listen to the full episode and start to think of your triggers. Ask yourself “How can I manage them for good?” Over time, you’ll have a much stronger hold on your stress triggers and feel a greater sense of calm.

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Jenn Mullen holds degrees in Psychology and Business Management, as well as a certification in health and wellness coaching. She combines over a decade of corporate experience with more than five years of small business expertise, bringing a unique blend of skills and insight to her work. Beyond her expertise, she’s a high-energy, passionate individual with ADHD who thrives on staying organized, bringing laughter to every project, and finding joy in the work she loves.