I encourage you to realize how your uniqueness and authenticity affect others and how important it is to express your gifts and talents.
THE ART OF LIVING AND LEARNING
The Art of Living and Learning is a transformative guidebook that helps you unlock your inner strength and potential.
In this updated edition, I share my bitter and sweet experiences, inspiring you to tackle challenges your way with determination and without compromise. The book discusses life, reality, misconceptions, expectations, dreams, desires, and mistakes. It’s enriched with insights and moments that are both frustrating and revealing and will help you reflect on your life’s journey.
Life is an amazing journey, and this book is a guide to managing it, designed to help you understand lifes’s flow, direction, and rhythm. It’s the ultimate gift for anyone seeking to unlock their full potential and become the best version of themselves. With this book in your hands, you have the recipe for transferring your experiences to the people you love.
The Art of Living and Learning is a must-read for anyone who wants to live their best life.
THE ART OF LIVING AND LEARNING
About the book
I wrote this book for my nieces Živa and Iza, hoping that some of my experiences, insights, and knowledge will be helpful to them.
I am aware that I can’t protect them from failures. Nor do I want to. By doing so, I would deprive them of many valuable experiences. There are no shortcuts. For everything in life, we need to be just the right age and have the proper knowledge and experience to properly understand it, learn something from it, and enjoy it.
The book’s purpose is to help find the (most) right answers.
Why choose the book
Life is an amazing journey.
It takes time to understand the flow, direction and rhythm of this journey. Some people have talents to see the trends, patterns, and have the strength to take this journey up to another level—some call it “life management,” others “life design.” Having a role model in your life who can share wisdom; confirm the right for unconventional, out-of-the-box thinking; and inspire you to be the best version of yourself is truly priceless. The stories in this book are rooted in the unique real life experiences of a girl who made it all work. Self-reflection, daily wisdom, witty observations, and honest authentic sketches of important daily steps within our long journeys help the readers flesh out the core. This type of input can accelerate growth and remove boundaries for a happier, more fulfilled and positive life.
Svitlana Buko, PhD
This book is about bitter and sweet experiences, frustrating and revealing, and even those you’ve kept hidden. It talks about reality, misconceptions, expectations, dreams, desires, and mistakes. In short, it’s about life. The stories in this book are enriched with insights, bitter and sweet moments. Still, above all, they are about the desire and determination to tackle things you may not have dealt with before and do it in your own style—uncompromisingly and decisively.
You’ve got what it takes. You have the recipe for transferring your experiences, not selling them. You would have sold them if it weren’t for you being in this book. But there’s so much of you in it (in fact, all of you) that it’s not about selling but transferring. Essentially, you’re passing on your years of experience to the reader or, preferably, to my daughters. And for that, I am infinitely grateful. You have given them the most beautiful, best, and most unforgettable gift.
And that’s that.
“Coming back” crossed my mind many times while reading this book. Of course, I reviewed the index to see if you titled any chapter as such (Coming back). You didn’t, and I was overjoyed.
Yes, exactly. That’s the essence of this book. Coming back. You come back to it. You come back to the stories you’ve already read. Why? Because it feels good, because you feel like you didn’t fully understand, comprehend, accept, or admit everything the first time around . . . because you feel like you need to reread a chapter because something happened to you that is connected to a specific chapter in the book . . . because you need confirmation of your thoughts, your attitude toward the world, people, your environment, colleagues, neighbors . . .
In short, you return to your book. And that means it’s a good book. Because you want to read it constantly and draw from it.
This act of returning makes the book and the author great.
Your (proud) brother
Love form clients
Welcome to the corner where your thoughts take center stage!
Two evenings of a wonderful journey through your lines are behind me. It's one of those books that stays on the shelf by the bed so that you can pick it up, randomly open it, and breathe in the offered words. Thank you for the beautiful gift to all of us, ready to learn and embrace the moment with all our being. Congratulations, dear friend. I love you. In awareness of many moments together. Hug. 🦋❤️
Damjana Golavšek
Marjanca, read it, thrilled. Congratulations!! Most liked: mistakes need to be ALLOWED.❤️
Čarli Novak
Where were such aunts and guides when I was growing up. Although, as you write yourself, sadly, certain wisdom and realizations come only with gray hair and countless attempts in the wrong direction. And one more thought for the end: "Separate living prolongs collective life. Without distance, there is no relationship." Anthony Le Mello
Dragana J.
I immensely enjoyed reading... Along with the content, I was also captivated by the beautiful illustrations and graphic design by Radovan Jenko. The book is such a top-notch product, including its refined aesthetics that appeal not only to the soul but also to the eye, and even through the physical touch – the binding in a deep blue cloth. And then I came to the chapter About the Soul. Goodness. I'm really in the book. Dear Marjana Robavs, thank you for your trust.
Klemen Likar
Dear Marjana, What a wonderful gift you've written for your nieces; it couldn't be better. Just a perfect product! Including the idea about this email address and the continuation, which I'm sure is coming. My niece is turning 18 in a month, and I would most like to give her your book. This is what a person wants to pass on. I will read the pages marked with ribbons again; it's not a coincidence. 🙂 And the introduction to the book is excellent! The comparison of life to driving a car is great. This text must reach the masses! Thank you for enriching my life! And I look forward to all the future joint debates and enlightenments!
Tjaša
Dear Marjana, When, on a beautiful winter day in early February 2020, as we sat on a small rock on Napoleon's path high above the Gulf of Trieste basking in pleasant sun rays, you released the first pieces of your debut from your embrace and shared them with me and a mighty tree that, despite its nudity, made sure we felt safe under it, I got goosebumps, tears sneaked into my eyes, and the tree's bark veins trembled. The first thought I had while listening to your creation was: "What wisdom! What depth! What a woman! Only the greatest sages think and write like this! If only I had such a mother who equipped me with such experiences from a young age..." On March 13, when the Covid-19 epidemic was declared, you read me the chapter On the Bar. It was a kind of gene therapy that reshaped the basic building blocks of some layers of my mind. I was indeed given the opportunity to taste some delicious crumbs during the creation of the whole, but the expectation of the whole and the moment when I could feel the book in its magnificent final attire in my hands was something special. Despite the instructions to start from the first to the last page, I first read the chapter On the Bar three more times. 🙂 I still think it was written for me :))) Then, with deep gratitude, I embarked on an unforgettable journey with the remaining insights. Insights is a work that touched me deeply and powerfully. Just like you, dear Marjana, do again at every meeting. I am sincerely grateful for Iza and Živa because I and the whole world would be deprived of this gift without them. And if my first thoughts while sipping the first chapters were: "... if only I had such a mother...", my feelings, after having read Insights several times (at least some chapters), are somehow like this: "I do have such a Mother! Life, besides my biological mother, gave me a Woman who, at the same time reflects me in the present and equips me with knowledge and experiences for further life. Life has gifted me with an exceptional Teacher, a Master of life. Invaluable! Grateful to heaven and back." Insights are eternal; this is a book you want to keep somewhere nearby all the time. It is the fastest and most effective medicine to help yourself in the first moments when you are in delusion, embarrassment, or severe distress. I would put it on the National Health Insurance list to prescribe it on a prescription. 🙂 I look forward to your new inventions and new creations. You have an extraordinary talent for connecting, ennobling, and encouraging.
Nina Turnšek
Dear Marjana, It's been a while since I read your book, for which I thank you from the bottom of my heart. It was a real, top-notch surprise, which I wanted to tell you in person. But since this won't happen soon, I'm emailing you. I confirmed what I know about you and how I perceive you. At the same time, I was surprised by how much sincere confession and, at the same time, the breadth of your spirit you additionally revealed in it. You greatly impressed me with your writing and thinking, which is also close to me. To gather the courage and energy for such work is another story, so hats off and sincere congratulations! I look forward to when a friendlier time for socializing will allow me to tell you more about my perception of your book. At the same time, I look forward to the fact that you allowed me to share your book with those who I know will welcome it and enjoy reading it, as I did myself.
Sonja Planinc
Dear Marjana, I'm glad I hitched a ride in your car on your journey. How long I'll stay, only time will show. Time is a relative category, and, as we know, it's not linear, so we have a lot of time and opportunities to meet in different dimensions. Your book is a masterpiece in many ways, and I say this entirely sincerely because I do not need to flatter you. 😂 We've already discussed the design. Content-wise, for me, it's one of the best personal growth books, a real handbook that will stay by my side for me to peek into when needed. While reading, I felt that connection that we call "soul mate." I would have written most of the things you wrote precisely the same way if I knew how. But I don't. And I don't need to do it because you've written everything down. I believe in energies, and thanks to them, we found each other. You've enriched my life, and I hope you'll continue to do so. And, last but not least, now shake that skinny butt of yours and make this book available to EVERYONE. So many people will be grateful if you release it in a larger edition! I'm simply thrilled. Thank you! 🙏
Lidia Pavlin
Dear Marjana, I'm glad I hitched a ride in your car on your journey. How long I'll stay, only time will show. Time is a relative category, and, as we know, it's not linear, so we have a lot of time and opportunities to meet in different dimensions. Your book is a masterpiece in many ways, and I say this entirely sincerely because I do not need to flatter you. 😂 We've already discussed the design. Content-wise, for me, it's one of the best personal growth books, a real handbook that will stay by my side for me to peek into when needed. While reading, I felt that connection that we call "soul mate." I would have written most of the things you wrote precisely the same way if I knew how. But I don't. And I don't need to do it because you've written everything down. I believe in energies, and thanks to them, we found each other. You've enriched my life, and I hope you'll continue to do so. And, last but not least, now shake that skinny butt of yours and make this book available to EVERYONE. So many people will be grateful if you release it in a larger edition! I'm simply thrilled. Thank you! 🙏
Lidia Pavlin
Dear Marjana, When I finished my obligations yesterday afternoon, I rushed home, eagerly threw off my clothes, indulged in a shower, put on comfortable leggings, a warm fleece, and - let the journey with Marjana begin! Let me say that your book enchanted me at first glance. And so I approached the reading with great respect, with an open heart. The design shows on every page with what precision the book has come among us, some select few, and I am genuinely proud to be among them. About the content, I could write a whole book. I found myself on a level in most chapters - I could say - as if I had experienced something similar. Your wisdom, however, is a kind of upgrade to what I have been feeling for some time, but I did not know how to place in space and time where I am currently. It was as if a storm blew, drove away the clouds, and a clear blue sky appeared. I closed the book late, pleasantly tired and somewhat calm. I told myself I would sleep on it and write to you about how I experienced it in the morning, as perhaps certain things need to "settle." However, even now, as I write these lines, I am constantly haunted by a feeling (which you describe in the chapter About Perfectionism) that words will not describe enough and worthily what your book gave me. But you will understand this. If I use a part of the thought you gifted me yesterday: "What is said is quickly forgotten; what is written leaves a lasting trace." I can only add that your book has left an indelible mark on me, and I am also glad that our paths have intertwined. And I eagerly await the continuation. Thank you again from the heart, and thank you for being.
Tanja Pavlič
Dear Marjana, I am immensely grateful to have become the owner of your book. It contains so much truth and wisdom. I just couldn't put it down. And you wanted to publish it only in two copies. 🙆 What a waste that would have been. I've already promised it to several of my friends. You are a born writer, and I sincerely hope this is not your last book. I am grateful that you have entered my life and that I can know you. With love,
Ana Lenič
Dear Marjana, The book and its author found me at the right time, reminding me of self-awareness and self-image. The content caresses me time and again, awakening dormant fragments within me. I am moved by the author's masterful writings, for which I am immensely grateful. I recommend it to everyone who wants to delve into themselves in a witty and realistic way.🤩 Bravo to the master, and my respects. 🙏 Thank you for our paths intertwining. ❤️
Mateja Ručigaj
Dear Marjana, Yesterday, I delved into your book. After reading a few chapters, I realized there is no rush with this book. Topics are opening up, and questions and thoughts are arising ... like a textbook. It's genuinely brilliantly written. With a few drafts sent by email, I already saw that the language is beautiful and the content is mind-blowing. However, I couldn't resist jumping to the marked chapters. Yes, you hit the nail on the head. The struggle against certain expectations of others touched me, and I thought about many of my past decisions. The other topic - about the media from which I escaped because I no longer wanted to be part of them, and also because of the reasons you mention. It's very well written and explained, and it may open someone's eyes 😃 I am enjoying every word I read, and I sincerely appreciate that you gave me the book and that I have the opportunity to read it. It has deep content and sincere emotions. I read the book twice. There were two years between the first and second reading. The content is the same; the experience and understanding of it, however, are somewhat different. Therefore, this is not an ordinary book but a real textbook and guide through different periods of life.
Suzana Praznik
Dear Marjana, This book came into my hands at the perfect moment. Before changing my shoes at home and taking off my jacket, I read the first few pages. It reminded me of everything I already know about life and what I should never forget. Thank you! I'm grateful that our paths crossed.
Anja
Dear Marjana, your book has captivated me ... There is so much wisdom and knowledge in one place that I can't put it down ... I am going for a little walk in the woods, then back between the lines. 😊😘
Ines Medica
I read it ... In one breath ... It's very readable. Each chapter could be a starting point for a debate. Or better said - you can write a book from each chapter. It's like good food: when it's already over, you just want another bite ...
Katarina
Certain things happen in life for a reason and at the right time. Your book came into my hands with a purpose, as I obviously needed it to console, calm me down and remind me of certain things we could even say - to open my eyes. "Everything will be fine, whatever life has in store for me" - this is a mantra that can free you from fear, and the awareness of this truth frees the spirit to breathe more freely and break the chains that have long held it in a cramp. Sometimes, when the right time comes, we come across doors. We are afraid to open them, as we don't know what awaits us behind them. A new experience awaits us, whatever it may be; the satisfaction of curiosity awaits us, courage and pride that we have even opened these doors, not disregard them. It would really be a shame if the book did not circulate among people, as it can help many in difficult moments and infuse courage, just like you had when you wrote your thoughts, feelings, and memories.
M.B.
What to write about the book? The rich, appealing design of the edition between the covers reveals reflections on everyday situations and dilemmas the author experiences / re-experiences on her journey. The impressive list of read and used literature initially aroused slight discomfort: "Not again a bunch of wisdom and instructions for a happy life and personal growth!" But the author skillfully navigates between what has already been heard or written and adds and illuminates examples with her insights and reactions to the challenges that life puts on her path. Handy reading, offered to her nieces and likely someone else who needs encouragement or assurance that they are on the right path and that saying NO is perfectly fine and not at all wrong.
Lučka
Hey, my dear ... Once again, I have to praise the release of your "masterpiece" (for now, the first one); at least in this, we agree, and someone else will nod to us: it's damn hard to write a book, and you've won across the board, from now on we'll just praise you ... I started as if it would go in one breath, but this is not a "fairy tale" that pulls you in, you have to breathe and ponder in between, and then I decided that this can't be reading in one gulp and now I'm going slower forward ...
Lajza
Dear Marjana, I can't tell you how much I enjoy reading your excellent book. The narratives are honest, inspiring, beautiful, and full of life! Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️
Polona Zupančič
On a cliff by the sea, I am reading a beautiful confession of a friend's soul. I'm enjoying the honesty about experiences and happenings, part of which I was a part of during certain periods of her life. Sometimes it takes my breath away and tickles my guts as I recognize these periods, but even more so when the thoughts and experiences resonate with the frequency of my perception of the environment and ourselves. Well, Marjana, hats off, salute. Only a strong, brave, and broad personality can share herself openly and with all her heart. I think I'm not the only one eagerly anticipating the next book, which is already in its infancy. 😍 Take care.
Diana Južnič
Dear Marjana, You probably agree and know very well that a reader doesn't find a book, but the book finds a reader. That's precisely how the book found my wife, even though you handed it to me first and personally. I have heard praise for the book in the sense of "the book is excellent" and "why is this not selling" from you when they were spoken by other readers, but rarely, if ever, have I heard the same words from my wife. Knowing that the book contains a source of knowledge through experiences, some of which we discussed before the book saw the light of day, I approached the reading with the greatest interest. I admit I set expectations, but they stemmed primarily from my curiosity about what else your book could tell me, as perhaps nothing in the world is random. I must confess something to you. The book has exceeded all my even so high expectations. Not only was my appetite for reading significantly increasing with each new story, but with every new serving of stories, I felt an insatiable hunger for more, suggesting that the book has a broader life note. The book is pleasant and easy to digest, but its most excellent nutrients remain in us forever. In the book, you generously allowed us to peek into your privacy and, in this way, showed us how this knowledge reshaped you and how you lived them. The English say "walk-the-talk," which is missing from almost all modern-day "instant" authors of self-help bestsellers. Still, you are a typical representative of the "talk-the-walk" movement, where you offer the reader a key through your observations and tireless life learnings, which opens the doors to entirely new worlds. The book provides something for everyone. For those of us who have been walking this path for years, it refreshes some already acquired knowledge and awakens new ones; for others who are still looking for suitable footwear to walk this path, your book represents an excellent encouragement on how to find footwear in their closet and not in the neighbor's. Marjana, THANK YOU for entrusting me with a copy of this written treasure. Your book is something that I will include with the greatest pleasure in the reading list for my children. Not as a goal to achieve a reading badge but as mandatory home reading.
Dragan Spasojević
Dear Marjana, This book captivated me. It's so different from all the other books that... Full of life, life experiences, and especially insights that only life and a journeyed path can bring you. I sometimes saw myself in the written words, sentences, and chapters. You say to yourself: "Look at me." But only at times. I will read the book again in peace because there were parts that I read multiple times and understood slightly differently each time. Of course, in my head. I'm delighted that Marjana was trusted to share a part of her life story and insights with others. To help guide others on the right path or direction with her experiences. Of course, if someone wants it.
Andrej
Dear Marjana, Your book is on my shelf in the bedroom like a Holy Bible - how proud you can be of yourself and it!!! Sincere congratulations!
Petra
Dear Marjana, I read the book almost in one gulp. So much wisdom and beautiful thoughts in one place! Congratulations! I will take it in my hands again and ponder over some insights. Thank you for the beautiful and instructive reading.
Ljuba Sorč
Dear Marjana, All I can say is, "Wow." This book or manual is genuinely life-changing. It is a grounded book – a book you read and nod along to. But there are also pages where you stop and say – gosh, it's true, sometimes one doesn't know how to close a chapter because everything happens so fast, and when one looks back, one doesn't even know what it was. This manual has somehow made sense of what it was and why it happened. In this book, it's allowed to interpret things your way – today, I understand it like this; in 10 years, I'll understand it differently. I like how you always allow yourself to be even better; you allow yourself to go into the unknown, despite the reproaches we are familiar with (like "at this age, you should already know"). I see that this "holds me back." As a child, you weren't allowed, but it's no longer allowed when you're a "made" person. And how many trials a person goes through could have wholly crushed you; you could have felt sorry for yourself for all you've experienced. But no, with this, you grow, you're wiser and better, you know what you like and don't, you're more decisive, and it's easier to accept the unknown and surrender to it because you trust. Bravo. 👏 I hope the second book comes out as soon as possible. 💙 It really drew me in, and I just wanted to keep reading. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for such a wonderful gift. 💞
Lucija Habe Marc
Dear wonderful Marjana, I am reading your words and crying. You're wonderful. You write beautifully, and you touch the reader with every word. It gives me chills when I remember the words from the beginning of the book that you don't know how to write. It may be true. What does writing even mean? You tell stories that caress the reader. 🥰 Thank you for this gift. ❤️ It will have a special place on our bookshelf. When my children grow up a little, I proudly hand them life guidelines as if given by their mother.
Marijana Evdženič
Dear Marjana! Let me tell you that a few days ago, I read your excellent book! What a fantastic idea, that thing at the end of the book!! You know, I was thinking in the middle that I would write replies to almost every chapter of yours – you stimulate a person to think, to reflect... with your determined, honest, concise yet still soft and at the same time "broad" way of writing. You impressed me; with your style of writing, what emanates from your words, inventiveness, profound simplicity (very complex perfectionist personalities from before – sorry to allow myself to express my opinion this way, with all respect!), dots between the text and the completeness of the book as a whole. Thank you, thank you for choosing me as the recipient of your book. I know this book won't collect dust because it's so brilliantly written that it's like the best friend there for you. When you have a challenge in a particular area, you talk to one chapter. And then, randomly open another one, which illuminates or shows you another aspect of the challenge. If you want to see or hear, you see and hear.
Tina Pahor
Marjana, congratulations on your literary debut! You've done a great job! Your collection of short and skillfully written life stories and insights intrigued me. One can't help but identify and contemplate one's response to them and, of course, other people's reactions. Many times I put myself in the shoes of a professional, a psychologist, and pondered. In the introduction, you beautifully describe the journey of life by car in a metaphor. Then chronologically, you bravely open your window: honestly, interestingly, and humorously. While reading the book, I got to know your courage, determination, strength, persistence, creativity, goal orientation, and more ... I like the intertwining of your stories with the thoughts of famous personalities from literature, science, and folk wisdom. Probably your nieces, to whom the book is dedicated, won't be able to apply all of your insights in their life decisions. It will be enough for them to open it occasionally and find inspiration for the fundamental life questions that the book is full of. The book is also superbly designed, which does not surprise me; your aesthetic and other standards are high. I wish for all you hold in your heart and mind to come true. Take care.
Zlata
ABOUT MARJANA
For many years, I worked as a media director at one of Slovenia’s largest and most creative advertising agencies—Futura DDB. My work involved observing people, their habits, needs, and behavior . . . Pursuing this field was driven by curiosity and the prospects of creative thinking, dynamic everyday life, and expanding horizons.
The decision to leave the advertising industry had been brewing inside me for some time. The need for change had become so strong that I could no longer ignore it. I firmly believe that exceptional results can only be achieved when you work with passion. Only then can you truly enjoy your work. However, my love had faded, and I felt it was time for a change.
I focused on sharing the knowledge and experience I had gained and exploring new areas. A completely new world had opened up in front of me: the world of the unknown. Everything happens for a reason, and every situation is a lesson from which we can learn and grow. I trusted and jumped into the unknown.
Contact
I'd Love to Hear Your Thoughts on "The Art of Living and Learning"!
📚 Have you recently journeyed through the pages of my book, “The Art of Living and Learning”? If this book has touched your life, sparked curiosity, or inspired thoughts, I’m keen to hear about it!
✉️ I can be reached at marjana.robavs@gmail.com. I cherish every impression, question, or insight you might share. Your perspectives are not just feedback to me; they’re valuable gems that enrich the essence of the book.
Looking forward to hearing from you!
With all my love,