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We’ve all heard of triggers—those moments that activate stress, fear, or past trauma. But have you heard of glimmers?

Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. Coined by Deb Dana, a clinician who specializes in Polyvagal Theory, a “glimmer” is a small moment that brings a sense of safety, joy, or peace. It could be the warmth of sunlight through your window, a favorite song that starts playing at just the right time, or a supportive comment from a teammate. These seemingly small moments are powerful—they signal to your nervous system, you’re okay. You’re safe. You’re supported.

In HERverse, this concept feels deeply aligned with how we support one another as women leaders. We’re not just navigating corporate challenges or team dynamics—we’re leading as whole humans. And part of that journey is recognizing when we are living in a reactive, survival-driven state… versus when we are living in alignment, presence, and possibility.

Triggers pull us into protection. Glimmers invite us into presence.

The good news? You can reframe your mindset to intentionally look for glimmers, and even turn some triggers into opportunities for growth. It’s not about ignoring hard moments—it’s about shifting your focus and regulating your response so you can lead and live from a grounded place.

HOW TO: Reframe Your Mindset from Trigger to Glimmer

1. Identify Your Triggers
 Name them. Write them down. Notice when your heart rate rises, when you feel defensive, overwhelmed, or shut down. Triggers often show up in leadership moments: difficult conversations, being questioned, feeling unseen, or overwhelmed by decisions.

2. Locate the Physical Reaction
 Where does it show up in your body? Clenched jaw? Tight chest? Once you know what it feels like, you’ll notice it sooner.

3. Intentionally Seek Glimmers
 Glimmers can be micro-moments: the first sip of coffee, a compliment, a beautiful email signature, a pink glitter heart (just saying). Start a “glimmer list” and jot them down daily.

4. Pause + Reframe in the Moment
 When you notice a trigger, pause. Ask yourself:

5. Practice Nervous System Regulation
 Breathing, stepping outside, moving your body, naming your feelings—all help bring you back to safety. This regulation allows glimmers to land more deeply.

6. Make Glimmers a Team Practice
 As a leader, you can help your team spot glimmers too. Start meetings with “a glimmer from your day.” Share one in Slack. Celebrate a moment of calm in a chaotic day. This isn’t fluff—it’s rewiring your culture toward emotional resilience and safety.

CALL TO ACTION

You don’t have to be ruled by triggers. You have the power to notice the glimmers, reframe your mindset, and choose presence over protection. Try this today: write down 3 glimmers you noticed—and share one with a friend, your team, or your journal.

Let’s shift from reacting to rising.