In this episode of The Attitude Lounge, we sit down with Shareen Silva, MS.Ed, the compassionate and energetic 11th-grade high school teacher who has become a trusted voice of encouragement on TikTok as Ms_Persist and on YouTube as Ms_Persist4922. Known for her authentic conversations about growth, self-awareness, and emotional resilience, Shareen brings her educator’s insight and her creator’s heart to a deeply human discussion.

Together, we explore what it truly means to be a work-in-progress; not as a flaw, but as a lifestyle. Shareen reminds us that acknowledging our faults isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s the beginning of transformation. She talks about the importance of being honest with ourselves, accepting reality as it is, and understanding that healing doesn’t require perfection, only willingness.

A major theme of the conversation is the power of presence: how the past no longer exists except in memory, and how the future is shaped by what we choose to give our attention to today. Shareen shares how she encourages her students, followers, and herself to stay grounded in the moment, recognizing both the good and the challenging parts of life without letting either define us.

We dive into the following:

Positivity with depth, not forced optimism, but choosing hope while acknowledging pain.

Healing as a process, nonlinear, personal, and ongoing.

Acceptance without settling, seeing things clearly so we can respond wisely.

The courage to face your own patterns, and to move forward anyway.

The reality that growth is work, and why that work is worth it.

With warmth, humor, and her signature authenticity, Shareen Silva encourages us to show up for our lives with intention. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or simply someone navigating your own path, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: you don’t have to have it all figured out, you just have to be willing to keep going.

Welcome to a conversation about owning your journey, embracing the present, and giving yourself permission to evolve.

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