One year later…and what an experience it’s been. Sometimes it’s hard to believe I’ve been in the Netherlands this long. Other times it feels as if I’ve lived here forever.
For me, December has always been a time for reflection, when I look at what I’ve achieved (or failed to achieve) in the year. This year, my reflections are of course all related to our decision to move to the Netherlands.
Scheveningen 'Nieuwejaarsduik' 2010, with Gary, Carla, me and Joe!
Moving here has had a dramatic impact on nearly every aspect of my life, from what I eat, to how I view the world. And change is never comfortable or easy. Looking back over the past year, I now have a better idea as to what I should have done differently.
Had I learned to speak and write the language earlier, I would probably have been employed and made a few friends. Because for me, the hardest part of living in the Netherlands is the solitude you face as a foreigner. I’ve realised that my expectations were unduly high and that it will probably take two or three years instead of three months to make Dutch friends.
On the flipside, some positive changes as a result of our move here include a more relaxed and healthier lifestyle. We now eat more cheese and yogurt and much less meat. I am much more active than I’ve ever been, mostly due to the fact that I now cycle where I need to go. Recycling and being more environmentally aware is now part of daily life.
I am also much less stressed than I was in my previous career. Partly because I no longer work in a stressful corporate environment, but mainly because doing things the Dutch way just takes longer. I’ve developed patience.
I’ve also learned to appreciate small things, like a greeting from a neighbour or a sunshine day. I am starting to understand the Dutch sense of humour, and have had Dutch people over for dinner. Slowly I am starting to settle in.
So after one year of living here, I have no more illusions and a few realisations. At worst, living in the Netherlands is lonely, cold, expensive and frustratingly structured. At best, travelling from here is more cost-effective than from many other parts of the world. I am starting to enjoy my new lifestyle, and living here has deepened the relationship between me and my partner.
In general, I have a broader world-view. I view my home country more objectively, and I am interested in topics and subjects I did not even consider a few months ago. The last year has been a massive learning curve. And it’s been fun, going back to school in a manner of speaking.
I can honestly say the past year has been the best year of my life. I am looking forward to the new year with just as much anticipation as before, adamant to experience as much as possible of the Dutch way of life. Starting with the Nieuwjaarsduik (New Year’s Dive – see also photo above) at Scheveningen on the 1st of January of course!
Here’s to 2010! Hope it’s just as wild and wonderful as 2009.
Tags: expat life
Dear ms. Smit,
I just read all your posts on this site and must say that you are an excellent writer. As a native Dutchman, I found it very interesting to read the newcomer’s point of view, and am glad it has been such a positive experience for you. Good luck in the time to come!
PS Have you been ice skating yet?
Thanks! And thanks for reading! I haven’t tried ice-skating yet, but it’s definately on my to-do list. Think I’ll try it with the chair pushed in front on me – looks easy enough that way….