From Survival Mode to Empowered Living: My Journey Back to Faith, Clarity, and Purpose
I used to pride myself on getting things done—my way, on my own. Independence was my
strength. I thrived on the satisfaction of accomplishing goals and keeping everything in order.
But nothing could have prepared me for the shift that came with starting a family. Even then, I
thought I had it all under control.
It wasn’t until I found myself overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and spiritually disconnected
that I realized something had to change. I was sinking—and I didn’t even know it. My faith in
God had quietly slipped away, replaced by misplaced trust in people and the belief that I had
to manage everything myself. That belief left me lost, confused, and constantly questioning,
“Where did the real me go?”
I didn’t recognize it at the time, but I was living in survival mode. The vibrant, driven woman I
once knew was buried beneath exhaustion, fear, and self-doubt. And although I was showing
up on the outside, I was crumbling on the inside.
But one morning, something shifted.
I sat at the table, sipping tea, and said aloud, “Lauren, you say you want more for yourself,
your family, and your life. So what are you going to do differently?” That moment was the
beginning of my transformation.
How I Overcame the Challenges: The Steps That Changed Everything
My journey wasn’t quick or easy, but it was worth every step. Here’s how I began to reclaim
my life, my faith, and my purpose:
1. Taking Full Responsibility
I stopped pointing outward and started looking inward. No more excuses. I accepted that my
healing and growth were up to me—and that was both terrifying and empowering.
2. Restoring My Faith
I returned to the one constant that never fails—God. I asked for forgiveness. I forgave
myself. I stopped trying to carry everything alone and leaned back into divine guidance and
truth.
3. Journaling My Way Through the Storm
This step changed everything. I picked up my wellness journal and started writing. Not just
about my to-do lists or goals—but about my fears, my frustrations, my prayers, and my
progress. Putting my thoughts on paper helped me hear myself again. It gave me clarity. It
helped me track my growth, recognize patterns, and celebrate even the smallest wins.
Journaling became my safe space and a vital part of my healing.
4. Facing Fear and Releasing Control
I made a list of the things I feared most—being judged, failing, not being enough—and I
challenged each one. Fear had been in control long enough. I decided to stop giving it the
final say.
5. Reclaiming My Identity
I reconnected with the woman I used to be before life dulled her light. I gave myself
permission to feel again, to hope again, to believe in a bigger version of myself.
6. Shifting My Perspective
Instead of asking, “Why is this happening to me?” I began asking, “What is this preparing me
for?” I realized that every challenge was preparing me to carry the weight of the blessings I
had prayed for.
Today, I stand on the other side of that storm—wiser, stronger, and more grounded in my
purpose. I’ve learned that God’s promises never return void, but sometimes we have to go
through the fire to be ready for the blessing.
If you’re a woman who’s feeling lost in the demands of life, uncertain of your next move, or
disconnected from your faith and power—know that you’re not alone. I’ve been there. And I
want you to know there’s a way through.
You don’t have to stay in survival mode. Healing, clarity, and peace are possible. You are
capable of real transformation, and it starts with one decision: to believe there’s more for
you—and to take action to claim it.
Key scripture: Psalm 34
