A while ago, someone asked me, “How are you, really?”

And without even thinking, I said, “Honestly, I’m in survival mode.”

Survival mode can feel like moving through life on autopilot.

You wake up, take care of everyone else, check the boxes, and call it a day.

You’re functioning, but not truly living.

As the holiday season approaches, I’ve been asking God to show me how to come out of survival mode because this time of year is complicated. It holds both joy and grief, laughter and tears.

For me, it’s a tender season. One that reminds me of my father’s passing, of time that’s gone by too quickly, of everything that has changed.

But even in the midst of grief, I’m reminded that God is near to the brokenhearted. He doesn’t rush our healing.

Maybe you’ve been in that space too, where you’re just trying to make it through the day, not sure how to slow down enough to feel joy again.

If you’re currently in survival mode, I want you to know that I see you and I’m right there with you. But we don’t have to stay there.

Here are some things that I’m doing to help me get out of survival mode:

1. Prayer, Worship, and Journaling
   • Talking to God is a constant from morning, throughout the day, and at night
   • A good worship playlist can set the tone and allow the music to speak to you
   • Journaling has been a way to release everything. A scripture that has guided me through this time is the latter part of Nehemiah 8:10 NIV: “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
2. Community: During this time, a constant reminder has been that I am not made to do life alone and that I will need my circle (community) to be there to help get through the ruts
3. Counseling: Everyone needs a non-biased outlet where they can let their guard down, take off the mask, and get it all out
4. Checking in on others as well (Believe me, it helps you too)

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing additional resources and reflections to help us navigate the holidays together without operating on autopilot. Be on the lookout for the Surviving the Holiday Series, which will cover topics such as prayer, grief, mental health, parenting, self-care, and business.

You already know I’m big on checking in with your people, so I’m checking in with you right now.

How are you really feeling as we head into the holidays?

Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to send you an encouraging word and lift you in prayer.

Many blessings,

Jarkeshia

PS. God’s been putting it on my heart to create a space for women who are tired of being strong alone…a faith-filled community where you can be seen, heard, prayed for, and supported through every season. I’ll be sharing more soon, but just know this: a safe space is coming for you.