I spent this past weekend out of town and had some time for self-reflection and contemplation. This year has been quite tough for me. It’s been curve-balls and shut doors, and I have needed patience like never before. After getting my work permit denied, I’ve been in a sort of limbo, not knowing what my next steps should be. It’s been a long period of anxiety and spells of immense sadness and borderline despair. I won’t get into it too much, but I will share the lessons I’ve learned; as cliche as they might sound.

1. Be ready for the worst
When I first applied for my work permit, I took its issuing for granted. I ‘knew’ I would get the work permit and soon be on my way to start my career. Then people around me started getting work permit denials and I started to prepare myself psychologically for the possibility of denial. When I got the letter of denial, I was quite unfazed.

2. If you can do something about it, do. If you can’t, don’t stress
When you’ve done all there is to do, do not stress about it. If there is something you can do about the situation, by all means do it. e.g. study for an exam as best as you can, and once you have, let go. There’s no point stressing over situations that you can’t control, especially when you’ve done all you can.

3. Have a plan B
It helps to have plans to fall back on when your first option falls through.

4. Hold onto something
It is important to have a higher hope and power to hold onto in weakness. For me this is God. When it all seems bleak, I read the Bible and find strength or cry out to him in prayer. Then I trust that however hopeless it may seem in the moment, something will open up.

5. Find distractions
During long periods of waiting, distractions are crucial. For me, it is part-time work for my mom. Keeping busy takes your mind off a stressful situation.

Have a happy Monday! 

Here’s the vlog from the previous weekend when I went to Giraffe Centre with some girlfriends, then later to Marula Mercantile for food.

Nothing but love your way.

❤