July 5, 2025
When was the last time you felt truly present? For many of us, it’s been a while. We get stuck in survival mode—going through the motions, checking off to-do lists, meeting deadlines, and putting out fires. While survival mode can help us power through tough times, it’s not meant to be a permanent state.
Over time, living in survival mode takes a toll. It leaves us feeling exhausted, disconnected, and uninspired. If you’re ready to break free and start thriving, this guide is for you. (Listen to ways chronic stress was showing up in my body and how it might be showing up in yours too!)
Survival mode is your brain’s way of keeping you safe during periods of stress or uncertainty. When your nervous system detects a threat—whether it’s a looming deadline or an actual emergency—it activates the fight, flight, or freeze response.
This response is helpful in short bursts, but when the stress becomes chronic, it keeps your nervous system in overdrive. Instead of feeling calm and capable, you’re stuck in a state of hypervigilance, constantly bracing for the next challenge.
Your brain and body are designed to protect you. The amygdala, the part of your brain responsible for detecting danger, takes over in survival mode. It prioritizes immediate safety over long-term goals, meaning activities like creativity, planning, and connection often take a backseat.
This is why survival mode feels so draining:
The good news? With intentional practices, you can shift out of survival mode and into a state of abundance.
If you’ve been living in survival mode, the first step is to create space to calm your nervous system. Once your body feels safe, you can start reconnecting with what brings you joy and purpose.
Here are three steps to help you make the shift:
You can’t thrive until your brain and body feel safe. Try these simple practices to soothe your nervous system:
Survival mode can leave you feeling disconnected from your passions and values. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you:
Once you’ve calmed your nervous system and reconnected with what lights you up, start taking small, intentional steps toward a more fulfilling life:
You don’t have to stay stuck in survival mode. By calming your nervous system, reconnecting with your passions, and taking intentional steps, you can create a life that feels abundant, joyful, and fulfilling.
If you’re tired of merely existing and ready to start thriving, I’m here to help. Together, we can create the space and clarity you need to move forward.
Work with Me to start designing a life that feels as good as it looks.