The Desire for a Simpler Life
As a city girl, I have always found comfort in the heartbeat of urban life. The hustle and bustle, the lively cafes, the vibrant streets all make up a symphony that brings immense joy to my soul. Wandering around trendy shops, catching the latest musicals, and of course, indulging in the sun-kissed beaches – there’s an undeniable allure to city living. Each day begins with a steaming cup of coffee, paralleled by bustling sounds and a morning of people-watching. After all, coffee isn’t just a beverage—it’s a lifestyle that fuels the vibrant city life I love.
For years, I believed my urban roots were unchangeable, a constant in an ever-evolving world. However, life has a funny way of steering us into uncharted territories. It nudged me toward an unexpected adventure—our project of building houses in Tonga. This venture slowly unraveled a world that was enchanting and entirely different from the one I knew. The island’s warm culture and laid-back lifestyle offered a contrast to city streets, and I found myself drawn into it.
Yet, embracing this dual existence posed its own set of challenges. It’s one thing to dream of a simpler life, but quite another to confront the realities that accompany such a choice. Sharing my aspirations with others often met with skepticism. Would I grow to dislike this simpler life, devoid of the conveniences I was accustomed to? The thought of not being able to resolve immediate needs by a quick trip to the store surfaced concerns about losing a lifestyle of comfort and immediacy.
The conversations naturally shifted to the topic of education and healthcare. Friends and family often questioned if my children would be at a disadvantage. The shift away from conventional schooling and immediate healthcare access weighed heavily on my decision. However, I trust in my ability to provide my children with the necessary knowledge and experiences that life demands. The opportunity for them to be fluent in two languages, cultivating a rich cultural fluency, is a gift I find invaluable.
Adding to these dilemmas is the emotional complexity of leaving my eldest son behind as I embrace this adventure. The mere idea of being a flight away if he needs me pricks at my maternal instincts. Yet, I remind myself that he is a burgeoning adult, capable and resilient. Even with the challenge of his sight, he continues to prove that he can navigate life on his own terms.
Amid these hurdles, my longing for exploration and growth remains steadfast. Marrying my now-husband and the joy of our daughter’s birth have introduced delightful complexities to my life. While dreams were momentarily shelved, the adventurous spirit within me reignited with vigor. Convincing my husband to construct a home in a country I hadn’t yet visited was undeniably audacious. Remarkably, the gamble paid off, presenting us with a charming sanctuary that I now frequently retreat to—a few times a year at least.
Straddling these two worlds—the high-paced city life and the serene island escape—is a dance of complexity and beauty. Running a successful business in New Zealand while basking in the tranquillity of Tonga is a dream I am determined to make reality. Together with my business partner, our relentless efforts have flourished our Brand and Communications Agency, extending our outreach across New Zealand and Australia.
This balancing act doesn’t come without its trials. The dual roles—mum, business leader, and island homesteader—test my resilience, but also provide profound fulfillment. The rise of hybrid work arrangements has minimised geographical barriers, allowing virtual collaboration to flow seamlessly, aided by the digital age.
Experimenting with a two-week rotation between both locations has been a learning experience. The invaluable lesson of stable internet services became evident as Tonga’s power inconsistencies presented unforeseen challenges. Addressing this, my next venture involves securing Starlink and a reliable generator, ensuring constant connection and continuous workflow.
Embracing this dual lifestyle is my new normal—a realm where the heart divides its rhythm between palm-fringed horizons and neon cityscapes. The journey remains about crafting a harmonious synergy of the fast-paced and the tranquil, the familiar and the novel. With every sunrise, I find magic in holding both worlds close, discovering the beauty and challenges of living between two contrasting, yet wondrous, realities.
