Surviving, Not Thriving

Hey Simplifiers,

I’ve got to be real with you today. Some days, it feels like we’re just surviving. And if you’re reading this, I want you to know: you’re not alone. Behind every curated feed and every “success” story, there’s a lot of struggle that doesn’t make it to the highlight reel. And honestly? That’s where I’m at, too.

Let’s Talk About It: surviving vs. thriving

We hear a lot about thriving—living your best life, crushing goals, and feeling on top of the world. But what about when you’re just trying to get through the day? What about when showing up feels like a win in itself? Surviving isn’t a failure; it’s part of the process. It’s okay to be in this space, and it doesn’t mean you’re stuck here forever.

Survival Mode: Small Transitions to Help You Keep Going

1. Start Small—And I Mean Tiny Because They Matter
   You don’t have to overhaul your life to make progress. Pick one thing, even if it’s as small as making your bed or organizing your desk. Small actions can create a ripple effect, reminding you that you have control, even in the chaos.

2. Set Boundaries with Your Time and Energy
   When you’re just surviving, it’s okay to say no—to tasks, to people, and even to yourself when you feel pressured to do more. Protect your time fiercely, and don’t feel guilty for prioritizing rest. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

3. Acknowledge the Hard Stuff Without Judgment
   It’s okay to feel disappointed, frustrated, or scared. Acknowledge those feelings without rushing to fix them. Sometimes just naming what’s hard can take away some of its power. You’re not weak for struggling; you’re human.

4. Celebrate the Survival Days
   Got out of bed? Answered an email? Cooked yourself a meal? These aren’t small things when you’re in survival mode. Celebrate the heck out of them. Each one is a step forward, no matter how tiny it feels.

5. Reach Out—You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
   Lean into your support system, even if it’s just venting to a friend or our community. Being open about where you’re at can be scary, but it also creates space for connection and support.

#FeelGoodFriday Tip

It’s easy to brush off small victories when you’re in survival mode, but every little win matters. This #FeelGoodFriday, let’s take a moment to honor those moments that keep us going. Here’s a small action you can do today:

Treat Yourself to a “Survival Celebration”
It doesn’t have to be big or fancy—just something that makes you feel good, even if it’s just for a moment. Here are a few ideas:

• Take a Coffee Break in Peace: Set your phone aside, grab your favorite drink, and just enjoy five uninterrupted minutes.

• Put on Your Favorite Song and Dance It Out: Music can be a powerful mood booster, and moving your body can help shake off some of the day’s stress.

• Write Down One Thing You Did Well This Week: It could be anything—showing up, setting a boundary, or simply making it through. Writing it down makes it real and reminds you that you’re doing better than you think.

It’s not about doing something grand; it’s about recognizing that even in survival mode, you’re still showing up, and that deserves to be celebrated.

Before You Go:

Believe Me When I Say: It’s Okay to Just Survive

If you’re in survival mode right now, know that it’s okay. You don’t have to be thriving every day to be making progress. Some seasons are just about holding on and finding moments of calm in the chaos. And that’s enough.

I’d love to hear from you. How are you really doing? What’s one small thing you’re doing to keep going right now? Hit reply—I’m here to listen. 🤍