Why Are You Still in Survival Mode? | Charlene Holmes | TEDxTexas State University

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker’s personal views and understanding of trauma, the brain, and the nervous system which lacks scientific support. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf What if the survival mode that once protected you is now the very thing holding you back? In this talk, Charlene “Char” Holmes explores how generational patterns, environment, and the brain’s wiring can keep us stuck in a constant state of alert even when we’re no longer in danger. She offers a powerful reframe: you don’t have to eliminate survival mode, but you can learn to work with it so you can finally move from surviving to SurThriving. Charlene “Char” Holmes is a psychology student at Texas State University and a certified trauma-informed life coach dedicated to helping others transform their mindset, embrace healing, and cultivate personal growth. Before pursuing psychology, she spent over a decade serving in federal public service where she developed a deep understanding of human need, communication, and resilience. Today, Charlene channels that experience into her work as host of the award-winning podcast Talk Bari To Me, leading transformative conversations around wellness, mindset, and self-discovery. She is also an executive contributor for Brainz Magazine and an honoree of the CREA Global Awards, recognized for her contributions to thought leadership and personal development. Charlene’s work continues to inspire individuals to rewrite their stories and step confidently into their purpose. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx