When I was in crisis, I discovered I had two options: drown in it or claw my way up and out. It’s easy to say “rebuild,” but when the floor drops out, “rebuild” sounds impossible. So let’s get real: no amount of advice erases pain. But if you’re looking for a way forward, this is it—one step at a time.

First, I wanted to run. Buy a one-way ticket to Bali, escape the wreckage, and pretend it wasn’t happening. Some of you might feel that too. Then there was the fight response—anger, resentment, forcing justice for what felt unfair. But let’s face it: running and fighting might distract you, but they won’t free you. And pretending it’s all fine doesn’t work either—it just makes the pain settle deeper. In reality, freedom starts with humility—acknowledging the mess without letting it define you.

That’s where “measuring short” comes in. Too many people are stuck trying to leap to a finish line they can’t even see. Here’s what I learned: if you obsess over “arriving,” you never will. The destination is an illusion until you take the first step. So, focus on the next right step. Then, take another. Life rebuilds in moments, not leaps.

When I say, “Don’t quit, you win,” I mean redefine what a “win” even looks like. It’s not always about getting back to what you had; sometimes, it’s about discovering something deeper. The road back may surprise you, but it won’t happen by magic—you have to show up every day. Forget about looking like you have it together; no one cares about the mask anyway.

Remember: survival doesn’t mean you’re done; it means you’re still in it. And that’s enough. So, today, take that one step, then the next. You’re not here to fake it; you’re here to find something real. Because if you keep going, you’ll find a new strength in the pieces left over, something raw, real, and completely yours.

Steps I Took to Measure Short

These were the steps that helped me, and maybe they’ll be helpful for you, too:

1. Get Up: Every day, I made the choice to get out of bed and not let isolation win. Just showing up was a small, crucial victory.

2. Move Your Body: I focused on what I could control, like staying physically active. It kept me grounded when life felt chaotic.

3. Practice Gratitude: I started expressing appreciation to others daily, helping me notice the beauty still present.

4. Build Something Meaningful: Beyond work, I poured myself into a passion project. Creating something valuable gave me purpose and the chance to experience wins amid loss.

Rebuilding doesn’t happen in an instant—it’s a journey built on small, steady steps. Each day you choose to get up, move, be grateful, and create, you’re stacking victories. It’s okay if you don’t have the future mapped out; just take the next step in front of you. Embrace this moment as it comes, and let growth happen organically. Remember, you’re not aiming for perfection, just progress. Keep moving forward—real transformation is within reach. Don’t quit, and you’ll find a new strength waiting for you.