In life, it is not enough to merely survive, we should work towards thriving and flourishing. Survival should be our baseline, thriving our goal. There is a world of difference between the two. Surviving means just getting by, handling life's challenges as they come, whereas thriving is about growing and flourishing, navigating those same challenges with grace, learning from them, and becoming better. In this blog we explore the transition from surviving to thriving, the key elements of thriving, and how you can foster these steps into your life.
Surviving is where we manage to keep going, we get up, we brush our teeth, shower, dress, get through the day, cook dinner, bedtime ritual, rinse and repeat. While there's a certain inherent strength required to survive, it's a reactive state and is really just barely getting by. It is driven by a fear-based mindset that motivates based on our need to keep our head above water, stop kicking and the waves of life will literally drown you. We survive to live another day, hoping that it will be a little bit better and a little bit brighter.
Thriving is a proactive state. Thriving goes beyond mere existence or basic functioning, it is the desire and drive to live a vibrant and fulfilling life. It is about actively pursuing personal development, cultivating joy, and seeking a meaningful, fulfilling existence.
Key Elements of Thriving
Growth Mindset:
Thriving involves adopting a growth mindset, a term coined by psychologist Carol Dweck. It means viewing challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, rather than insurmountable obstacles.
Resilience:
The ability to bounce back from adversity is crucial to thriving. Resilience is not about avoiding difficulties but adapting to them, learning from them, and emerging stronger.
Wellbeing:
Physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing are fundamental to thriving. This encompasses everything from healthy lifestyle habits to mental health care, from cultivating positive emotions to building strong, supportive relationships.
Purpose and Fulfillment:
Thriving is closely linked with having a sense of purpose and achieving a sense of fulfillment in life. This involves aligning your life with your values, passions, and strengths, and contributing in a meaningful way to the world.
Cultivating a Thriving Life
Moving from merely surviving to truly thriving involves a conscious, intentional shift in mindset, habits, and lifestyle. Here are some practical steps to help cultivate a thriving life:
Embrace a Positive Mindset:
Practice gratitude and mindfulness and try to see the good in every situation. A positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring life's difficulties, but instead, choosing to remain hopeful and resilient amidst them.
Cultivate Resilience:
Resilience is built by embracing life’s challenges, there will be setbacks and even failures along the way, but that is what life is, a few steps forward a few steps back and then forward again. It is important to develop coping strategies, learn stress management techniques, and remember it is always okay to seek support when needed.
Prioritize Wellbeing:
Take care of your physical health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Prioritize your mental health. Practice self-care, mindfulness, and seek professional help when needed.
Seek Purpose and Fulfillment:
Identify what gives your life purpose and work towards it. Set personal and professional goals that align with your values and passions. Engage in activities that make you feel fulfilled, happy, and satisfied.
Nurture Relationships:
Invest time and energy in building strong, supportive relationships. Connect with others in meaningful ways, be it family, friends, or community. Social connections are a vital component of thriving.
Transitioning from surviving to thriving is a journey of self-discovery, growth, and continual learning. It requires courage, effort, and persistence. But remember, the goal isn't to reach a final destination of 'thriving,' but to embrace the process along the journey. So begin today, and every day, by choosing not merely to survive, but to truly thrive.
Food for thought:
Do you feel you are surviving or thriving right now?
If you said surviving, what are some steps from the blog you think you might try?
If you said thriving, what are some steps you took to get to this moment?
What is one piece of advice you would give someone else?
As always, thank you for your love and support,
Team SG
