7 Things Survival Mode Stole From Me...

You can be capable, hardworking, and getting through the day—and still feel like you’ve lost yourself. For years, survival mode felt normal to me. Keep going. Meet the obligations. Figure out tomorrow. Somewhere along the way, joy, rest, creativity, connection, and even basic self-care became harder to reach. In this honest conversation, I share seven things survival mode stole from me—and what I’m noticing as I slowly begin to reclaim them. This is part of my journey of starting over at 39 in Jamaica: learning to live with more intention, give myself grace, and show up even when being seen feels uncomfortable. I’m sharing from inside the process, while I’m still figuring things out. If you’ve been hard on yourself for struggling to do what once felt easy, I hope this conversation helps you feel less alone. 💬 What’s one part of yourself you miss and want to make room for again? Share whatever feels comfortable—or simply say hello. Subscribe to follow the journey, including my next reflection on the gentle ways I’m learning to feel safe enough to rest and move forward. CHAPTERS 00:00 When survival mode becomes your normal 01:06 Joy and spontaneity 02:24 Rest and peace 04:41 Presence and focus 07:18 Creativity and curiosity 08:48 Basic self-care 11:08 Connection with others 13:49 Self-compassion 15:40 Change, loss, and giving myself grace 19:13 Becoming intentional about my life 20:26 Showing up and allowing myself to be seen 24:14 What I’m sharing next #SurvivalMode #StartingOver #SelfCompassion © 2026 Sherree A. Rhoden. All rights reserved. No reproduction, distribution or commercial use without prior written permission, except as permitted by applicable law.