Embracing Change: My Journey Through New Places and Challenges

When my husband, Marko, and I moved to the south of France for his work, I felt far from home. I was overwhelmed and unsure of how to rebuild my life. Leaving behind everything familiar was challenging. I started over in a new place where I didn't know anyone and couldn't speak the language fluently.

The Adventure Continues

Our adventures didn't stop in France. Marko's work took us to Switzerland, New Jersey, and Amsterdam. Each move brought its own set of challenges. Although these transitions were tough, I leaned on the arts to build friendships and create a sense of belonging. And boy, did I lean – forwards and backwards!

Why Doing Hard Things Matters

My journey has taught me that tackling tough challenges leads to growth and transformation. Here’s why doing hard things is so important:

Celebrating our First Year at Studio Mooi.

1. Hard Things Build Resilience

Challenges teach us to adapt and grow. Starting over in unfamiliar places forced me to embrace difficulties. Each challenge helped me find newfound strength.

2. Hard Challenges Spark Creativity

Tough situations push us to think differently. My crafting journey began as a way to connect with others, but it grew into a career I love and cherish. This transformation happened because I dared to face challenges head-on.

3. Hard Things Foster Connections

Challenges often bring people together. Through art, I have formed communities that led to lifelong friendships. The creative connections built during difficult times became vital sources of support.

Getting ready to open our doors in 2022.

4. Hard Things Build Confidence

Every obstacle I overcame boosted my self-belief. Moving from one country to the next and establishing a life in each taught me that I could handle whatever came my way. Confidence grew with every challenge faced.

5. Hard Things Open New Doors

By embracing challenges, I discovered my purpose, which ultimately led to Studio Mooi. Every new experience opened up more opportunities for growth and transformation.

Facing Your Challenges

We all face challenges, whether big or small. Lean into them. Whether you're learning a new skill, pursuing a dream, or tackling obstacles, hard things often lead to the most rewarding outcomes.

In our studio, we see this every day. Creativity isn’t just an elusive gift reserved for a few. It’s about taking risks, learning to pivot, and embracing the hard things we face. It's a skill we all possess when we let ourselves try.

Our 'We Can Do Hard Things' light reminds us every day at the studio not to give up.

At Studio Mooi, I witness transformation as people delve into new crafts, meet new friends, and discover joy through creativity. During workshops, we experience risk-taking and those magical “aha” moments, all because WE CAN DO HARD THINGS!

Final Thoughts

Each step you take toward facing a challenge is a step toward becoming the person you want to be. Remember, growth often comes from discomfort. So, embrace it! Let's celebrate every small victory along the way.

xo Tanya