How Are You Surviving?
“I have a duty to speak the truth as I see it and share not just my triumphs, not just the things that felt good, but the pain, the intense, often unmitigated pain. It is important to share how I know survival is survival and not just a walk through the rain.”
Existing in this world isn’t easy and, at times, it can feel unbearable for many of us. We come into this world stamped with our DNA imprint carrying the stories of our ancestors. Then, we have to learn how to navigate systems built on oppression, violence, and inequality.
We live in unnatural life conditions. It makes sense how we develop certain behaviors, mindsets, and responses to survive in such a world. Some of us become “stuck” in our survival patterns and stuck in our trauma/stress experiences. These survival patterns show up in individuals, relationships, family systems, communities, and culture.
People usually seek therapy to gain tools to learn how to feel better, to get unstuck, and to rid themselves of the emotional distress related to their survival patterns. Through my work as therapist, I have seen many people struggle with shame, guilt, fear, and self-loathing because they do not understand their patterns are rooted in survival. Instead, I bear witness to many who have convinced themselves there is something wrong with who they are, who believe they are “broken”, and who fear they cannot be “fixed” when this is very far from the truth. The truth is, there is nothing wrong with you, but there is a lot wrong with the world we live in.
Many of us want to rush past the discomfort to get to our healing, to feel “happy”, but this is where we often go wrong. The healing journey is messy and complex, and the first step to healing is building awareness. Self-awareness is one of the most powerful skills that can propel you from survival state to a thriving, present state.
Tips for your survival toolbox:
Step 1: Building conscious awareness
So, I ask you — How are you surviving? How does it show up within self? In your relationships? In your professional life?
Step 2: Reclaim your power
Connect with others, practice self-compassion & release shame, and engage in daily self-care practices.