Survival Mode?

  Ever feel like you’re just going through the motions just to survive each day? I used to think I was the only one in the world around me who felt like this; like I was just reacting to life instead of creating one. Maybe I’m wrong in saying this, but I don’t think I’m the only person who has felt like this and the growing need for mental health professionals tells me that maybe I’m not entirely wrong.

I used to think that the holiday season was the worst time for people in general who may be struggling with life…

 with family…

with work…

with having enough money…

with keeping my sh** together

It can be hard…

But now…

 Now in hindsight as a grandma, parent, and step-parent who has survived (and continues to feel like I’m just surviving from time to time), I feel like maybe this survival mode is heaviest in springtime.

The time changes (for most of us-we “lose” an hour of sleep), the sports and academic events pile up, meals are rushed and often on-the-go, the end of the school year madness of testing, keeping kids focused, and often we find ourselves trying to keep our heads above water while we slap a smile on and keep moving.

This too shall pass.

And it will.

But, what can help us feel more in the moment?

As a grandmother now, and a 50 year old mom and stepmom to busy kids, I realize how much of the hustle and bustle of my older kids’ lives I truly miss. I find myself feeling sad or guilty for not being more in the moment when they were young.

 Looking back, I wish I had the tools that I am so aware of now. The keys to calming my mind and heart and knowing (truly knowing) that the moments with family—are so fleeting.

 Friends, no matter your age, or your current role, or situation; understand that the moments you share with your family are quickly a memory. Take it in. Truly take it in.

 Take inventory. What can you control? Will whatever has your worried right now matter in 5 years, 5 months, 5 hours, 5 minutes?

 Let’s chat about how we can help each other during trials of surviving life. Let’s work together to build life rather than surviving it. 

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