Surviving vs. Thriving - What’s the difference?

Are you thriving?

Here in Georgia, Summer has officially arrived. The farmer’s markets are brimming with fresh produce from nearby fields, the earliest crops of the season. Temperatures are climbing steadily into the 80s every day. Afternoon showers nourish thirsty living beings. Summer is the season of abundance. Mother Nature is Thriving in all of her glory. 

We have survived the cold, dreary winter. The first budding flowers and fresh breezes of spring delight our senses, waking us from spiritual hibernation. Now the warmth of summer brings a burst of nourishment for the soul. 

This cycle of seasons brings to mind a question I often ask of friends and clients who are struggling to find inner peace and happiness: Are you Surviving or Thriving? 

We have just one life to live. Do you want to spend it trudging through rush hour traffic, fumbling away at a job you dislike, fighting the crowds to grab dinner before settling onto the couch for a long evening of mind-numbing reality TV (or video games) before passing out in the wee hours of the morning just to get up and do it all over again? Or… Would you rather enjoy every moment of your life, spending time with the people and activities that bring you joy? 

Take a moment to reflect on of your life over the past month. 

Is your life sapping your motivation?
Is your life burdened by the needs of others?
Is your life dull and repetitive?

or…

Is your life nourishing to your heart and soul?
Is your life brimming with growth, mental and emotional?
Is your life vibrant with personal meaning?

Survival is meeting the bare necessities to keep your heart beating, your lungs breathing, your bank account in the black. 
Thriving is engaging with every moment, driven by passion and intrigue.

Are you ready to thrive?