Are You in Survival Mode? Chasing a Future That Steals Your Present
- Ana Skenderska
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Ever noticed how your best ideas pop up when you're relaxed? Maybe in the shower, or during a walk? For me, it's always been walking. There's something about that relaxed state that allows clarity to rush in. But what happens when relaxation feels like a distant memory?
For years, I was stuck in survival mode. I thought that achieving "success" (financial milestones, to be exact) was the only way out. I was wrong. Putting constant pressure on myself, living in anxiety, wasn't just not fun—it was blocking me from actually moving forward, destroying my health.

The Trap of "More, More, More"
Many of us are conditioned to believe that constant hustle is the key to unlocking our potential. We push ourselves, sacrifice our well-being, and chase achievement after achievement. But what if I told you that this very approach is what's holding you back?
We live in an oversaturated world. To truly move the needle, you need to connect with your deeper self. It's not just about career achievements; it's about enjoying life, improving your quality of life, and feeling fulfilled. Because if you are seeking constant achievement, what are you really escaping from in your personal life?
The Truth About Survival Mode
Here's the thing: survival mode is a state of constant stress, anxiety, and worry. It's triggered by the belief that something isn't safe, that you're under pressure, that you always have to do something. It’s like your brain is stuck on high alert, always scanning for threats that may not even exist.
Anxiety stems from living in the future. You’re chasing all these things that you want to achieve, but you're also thinking of how far this future seems to be. This can lead to self-sabotage and put you in survival mode by overwhelming the body with stress hormones and shutting down your creativity.
Your body has needs, and when those needs are not met, survival mode takes over. Innovative ideas can't find space, and this loop takes over. Our decisions are derived from our emotions and our emotions are initially triggered by thoughts.
My Wake-Up Call
I remember a point where juggling multiple jobs, university, and side projects led me to burnout. I didn't even give myself time to think about how I felt. COVID came, and I had to face myself. Then one near-miss car accident became a wake-up call. I wasn't sleeping, wasn't taking care of myself. I was simply chasing something.
That moment pushed me to seek help from a psychologist. It was the beginning of a journey to understand my conditioning, change my beliefs. It all started, for me, in taking care of myself.
Here's what I learned: If you don't value yourself, no one else will. People will sense your weakness and control you. And while you might be a perfect employee, you'll never build a life on your own terms.
From Surviving to Creating
So, how do you break free? First, be aware when you are triggered, when you are feeling in survival mode. Then, regulate your nervous system and really understand what your body needs. Give yourself permission to slow down. Understand that rest is productive. Then your identity shifts. Because you cannot build a different life by remaining the same person.
It's about shifting from survival mode (fight, flight, freeze) to creation mode. In creation mode, you tap into your intuition, your true inner voice. A deep connection with yourself. From this place, clarity arises! Then, you're at peace and you welcome abundance. You realize, as I have, that it is truly your birthright.
Ready to Unlock Your Full Potential?
If you're tired of chasing a future that's stealing your present, I invite you to go deeper. In my new course, "Become Limitless," I break down these concepts in detail and provide practical tools to help you shift from survival to creation mode. You'll learn how to reprogram your mind, regulate your emotions, and create a life of joy and fulfillment.
Join a community of aligned souls who advocate for well-being and reaching full potential. The only way to reach your full potential is by first taking care of yourself.

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