“A single mom who works two jobs/Who loves her kids and never stops. With gentle hands and the heart of a fighter/I’m a survivor.” Listen, I am neither a single mom who works two jobs nor a person with children, but I’ve been vibing to these lyrics all week. The “I’m A Survivor” TikTok trend is one of the latest to hit my FYP, and I’m chuckling at the way we’re using the Reba McEntire song as an excuse to celebrate completing literally the most basic tasks. From taking out the recycling to finally doing your laundry, being a human ain’t always easy, but bestie, rest assured — you’re a survivor.
When I first saw the trending hashtag #ImASurvivor on TikTok, I wondered if Destiny’s Child was taking over the app yet again. This time, however, we’re talking about fellow independent woman Reba McEntire and her song, “I’m A Survivor,” which also happens to be the theme song for her self-titled TV show, Reba. (In the comedy, she’s a single mom struggling through family and financial dramas, hence the lyrics). While the song is 100% not a joke, the trending soundbite creates an ideal soundscape for TikTokers to demonstrate their everyday accomplishments. #ImASurvivor is the perfect mix of cheeky and earnest, and I’m 100% here for it.
There are many adaptations of #ImASurvivor that kill me. For example, this Twilight-inspired version that says, “Bella when Rosalie and Jacob make her take care of her child for 5 minutes” or this Outer Banks-inspired version. And if you’ve been keeping up with #OlympicTikTok, you’ll be pleased to know that USA Rugby player and breakout TikTok star Ilona Maher jumped on the trend recently, with a version that says: “Me making tik toks constantly at the Olympics so the world can get an inside look.” Honestly, a national treasure.
In case you’re wondering, country queen Reba herself jumped on the TikTok trend too by creating a version where she’s feeding her donkeys (which is no small task, sister). Top comments include “SCREAMING” and “Y’ALL REBA’S IN ON THE TREND” and “Reba is the only role model who has never let me down.” See? This is why I love TikTok.
Whether you’re the “mom” of your friend group who always brings the snacks or an overachiever who feels accomplished sending emails on Sundays, the “I’m A Survivor” TikTok trend is for you. Simply grab the trending audio here, write a caption sharing your grand accomplishment, and show us why you’re killing it. And there you have it! A simple, straightforward TikTok trend complete with a catchy song that’s perfect for bragging about anything and everything you do — even if it is literally the bare minimum.