There is a certain seduction in running away from oneself whenever one is triggered. In moments of conflict or emotional pain, the urge to flee can feel almost irresistible. The mind whispers, “Avoid this. Escape it. Distract yourself.” This instinct is especially powerful when things are going well in our lives, like when we are getting close to someone. Suddenly, the joy of connection is overshadowed by a wave of fear. The fear of vulnerability, the fear of being hurt, or the fear of repeating old patterns. We feel engulfed, overwhelmed, and scared as a deep, familiar pain surfaces.

We often don’t realize that these feelings arise not because the other person has power over us, but because there are unresolved wounds from our past that still have power over us. If we had truly dealt with our childhood traumas, the sting of these triggers would be significantly lessened. The pain we experience is essentially a message from the universe, urging us to go back and heal those old wounds. It’s a defining moment, a chance for profound personal growth. Yet, instead of confronting this opportunity, many of us prefer to avoid it, remaining trapped in a loop of repeated pain.

Too many of us flee from these painful triggers, lacking the ability to sit with ourselves and confront the unpleasant feelings that arise. We dive into busyness, whether it’s through work, social engagements, or mindless distractions, simply to avoid feeling the pain. This avoidance might offer temporary relief, but it comes at the cost of living unfulfilled lives. We end up with broken relationships, disconnection from ourselves, and a pervasive sense of emptiness.

The truth is, no one else has power over how we feel. Our reactions, our fears, and our pain are signals pointing us toward areas within ourselves that need attention and healing. Instead of running away, we need to sit with the discomfort, acknowledge it, and understand what it’s trying to tell us. Only by embracing these triggering moments as opportunities for self-reflection and healing can we break free from the cycle of pain.

The path to healing is not easy. It requires courage to face our deepest fears and traumas. But it is only through this process that we can truly transform our lives. By confronting our pain head-on, we pave the way for genuine fulfillment, deeper connections, and a life free from the shadows of the past. Embrace the discomfort. Let it guide you to your true self. Only then can you live a life that is authentically yours.