This week has been a rollercoaster, filled with the ups and downs that come with the daily grind of life. For those of us in the thick of it—whether we're juggling work, family, or personal challenges—sometimes it feels like we're just wading through a swamp of "stuff." Recently, when I opened up to a friend about the chaos swirling around me, she asked the simple, yet profound question: "Are you okay?"

In that moment, I was ready to tell her that I’d be okay because, after all, I'm a survivor. I was about to go with the standard line we often use to downplay our struggles. But as I reflected, I realized that the term "survivor" didn't quite capture the essence of what I was feeling. It's a word that implies simply getting by, making it through the rough patches, and emerging on the other side.

But here’s the thing: I’m not just a survivor. I’m a thriver.

For me, being a "thriver" goes beyond merely surviving the storm. It’s about thriving amidst the chaos, using the challenges as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. It’s about recognizing that, while life may throw its fair share of hurdles, I’m not only managing—I’m growing, evolving, and flourishing.

So, what does it mean to be a thriver?

1. Embracing Growth: Thriving involves a mindset shift. It's not just about enduring; it's about using every experience, good or bad, as an opportunity for personal growth. When I look at my struggles through this lens, I see them as chances to become stronger and wiser.

2. Finding Joy in the Journey: Thriving means finding joy even when things aren’t perfect. It's about celebrating small victories and appreciating the progress made along the way. It’s easy to get bogged down by setbacks, but a thriver finds reasons to smile and stay positive.

3. Building Resilience: While surviving might get you through the day, thriving builds long-term resilience. It’s about developing the tools and strategies to bounce back stronger, more confident, and more capable each time.

4. Creating a Support System: Thriving isn’t a solo journey. It involves surrounding yourself with supportive people who uplift and inspire you. For me, opening up to friends and sharing my struggles has been a crucial part of thriving.

5. Setting Intentions: Thriving requires a proactive approach to life. It means setting intentions and taking purposeful actions towards your goals, rather than just reacting to whatever comes your way.

As I reflected on my friend's question, I realized that my journey isn't just about surviving; it’s about thriving. And if you're feeling overwhelmed, remember that you, too, have the strength within you to thrive. Life’s challenges might be tough, but they also offer opportunities for growth, joy, and resilience.

If you’re a mom in survival, I want you to know that I see you, I hear you and at one point I was you. And if you’re a mom that is ready to go from surviving to thriving, but you don’t know where to start, I am here to support you. Schedule a free alignment call to see how I can support you best.

Here's to all of us who are navigating life's ups and downs—not just surviving, but truly thriving. Let’s embrace our journey with all its twists and turns and celebrate our ability to grow and flourish despite it all.

Alysia, Mom Support Coach