There are a lot of things that feel hard right now. The stock market, the news, all of it offers an opportunity to be triggered and have one’s joy sapped.

If we allow it, we can live our lives in a constant state of fight or flight. 

But, it’s summertime and (as the song goes) “the living is easy” so today I want to propose a different way… 

Look for your glimmers! 

The opposite of “triggers,” glimmers, as first noted by licensed clinical social worker Deb Dana, are described as “Micro moments of connection, safety and positivity.” As the name implies, these micro moments are tiny things that bring joy to the person experiencing them. They can be anything from a chance to behold a beautiful rainbow to a kind compliment from a stranger. 

When we experience glimmers, they telegraph safety to our nervous system. They allow us to feel calm, connected and hopeful. And feeling hopeful is a pretty powerful antidote to all the bad news we are constantly exposed to. 

In truth, life is full of glimmers, but since we are wired to look for negativity, we can easily overlook these lovely moments and miss their benefit. So we need to be intentional about finding them. 

How are you going to find your glimmers? As you go about your day, notice the little things that provide a sense of joy or ease. When you encounter them, take a moment to appreciate them and when possible, share them with others. 

So let this be the summer you notice all the good the world has to offer. Because if we let them, glimmers can not only brighten our day, but allow us to shine just a bit brighter.