Saturday 31 October 2015

Happily Falling Together



Life, in all  its glory, is so beautiful; it is not always simple nor easy though. We all have or will face moments of disappointment, struggle and even misery. I myself journeyed through some troubled times. I can't say that I have always handled my struggles gracefully; but when I do look back and reminisce, I actually have a deep appreciation for each and every time I was sad, hurt, angry, or lost in this crazy world.  

We all know the age-old saying "That which does not kill you, makes you stronger", which is true. However, what most of us don't seem to realise, is that these moments are not what they appear to be. We have been taught and conditioned to believe that hardships are the enemy, designed to beat us down and cause us pain. When we enter a time of struggle, we innately feel disheartened and distressed, with a sense that everything is "falling apart".  

For me, everyday has it's challenges, as I'm sure it does for most of you. Career goals are my priority right now, both with my day job, and my aspirations to become a writer. I am at a point where opportunities seem to be in reach - mostly in my day job - and a lot of hard work and focus is required. I have certain expectations for myself, with the current role I'm in; but a lot of change seems to be happening in my workplace. Past experiences - in similar situations - have conditioned me to believe that the potential opportunities I thought I had, may no longer exist. I saw myself as a leader, and hoped to move into a management role. However, this may not be the case... 

Now, it could just be that my anxiety is playing on tricks on me. Nasty anxiety! Regardless, I've made the decision just let things play out as they should.  I also took the time to look back on the similar past experience, and reminded myself that everything worked out for me in the end. 

Our plans, dreams and heart desires may sometimes be disrupted; but it is in the eye of the storm that we learn our greatest lesson. I have come to believe that my struggles and disappointments, are merely opportunities to learn and grow. It's never a pleasant experience of course - no one likes to feel hurt or disappointed; but still I choose accept that everything happens for a good reason. 

If life can have its ups, it will certainly have its downs.  I am aware of my weaknesses, so I know I have strengths. If I am brought down by struggle or disappointment, I am not afraid to get up and face life with new faith and insight.

To anyone that is going through a difficult time - you have the power to turn your worries into wisdom. Accept what is happening and use what you have learned to step forward. Your struggle is merely giving you an opportunity to grow and prepare for what is yet to be experienced.   

Life is not falling apart, you are simply falling together. 

Meraki Maiden xoxo




Tuesday 27 October 2015

Introducing!!!... The Meraki Maiden - Dating Diva Series


So, I have recently re-joined the single girls club again, yay me! I know most females my age would not be entirely thrilled with the idea of being in the more "mature" end of their 20 somethings, and of course still single. I on the other hand choose to embrace my new found freedom.

It's a chance for me to really connect with myself, improve on my awesomeness and just be fucking amazing! Oh yeah, plus a get to date again. Woo...

After renewing my single girl membership I was soon faced with the inevitable reality... I'm going to have to be open to the idea of dating 30 somethings... Now I know that might not sound  like such a big deal, but you have to keep in mind that when I last resided in the single world, I was in my early to mid 20's; back then 30 somethings were old and creepy, which means that I myself could potentially be considered old and possibly even creepy.

I then realised that I don't actually have any single friends left. Everyone I know is coupled up and prefer the family orientated lifestyle, which lead me to the next horrific realisation... Dating sites...

I'm sure most of you are 100% comfortable with meeting a potential partner this way. In fact, I'm pretty sure it's just the standard now, considering there are so many dating apps available. I myself have no issue with online dating; I practically live my life online anyway (as sad and depressing as that sounds).

I then began to reminisce; there are definitely some hilariously memorable experiences from my dating past and knowing me I'm sure to meet some "interesting" people in my dating future.

Then it hit me! This would be perfect materiel for a Meraki Maiden series, I mean a writer has to get their stories from somewhere right? And boy oh boy will I have some tales to tell.

So, ladies and gentlemen, I present to you - The Meraki Maiden - Dating Diva Series!

First, dating episode will be posted soon.

In the meantime Live, Love and Laugh with Meraki xoxo





Monday 26 October 2015

Challenges in Life

Every day, every situation & every person is your teacher; everything you encounter in life will have a good or bad hidden message that will shape you into the person you are meant to be. 

It can be hard to maintain that mentality though, especially when life begins to challenge you. What most of us don't realise though is that those challenges are not designed to make you weak or set you up for failure. They are merely exercises to help you develop your strengths & learn something new about yourself. We only fail these challenges when we begin to view them as pitfalls; blocks to our passions & dreams. 

What we need to start realising is that there is more to our book of life then just that one page we are stuck on. 

Don't let those challenges discourage you; you have what it takes to persevere. You WILL succeed eventually.