✨ Your Integration Bestie ✨

“Do you feel like a stranger in the Netherlands? How do you know if you are in the right place?”

I was asked this question the other day, and I had a good think about it.

When I first arrived here, it wasn’t something I questioned. I was wearing rose-tinted glasses; everything was new and exciting. I felt a surreal sense of accomplishment because I finally had my residence permit to live in the Netherlands long-term!

It was reminiscent of my move to Australia 17 years ago. Back then, while everyone around me was talking about homesickness, I was simply thrilled to be in a place I had longed to live.

And then reality sets in and you get pulled out of your La-La-Land.

The initial excitement faded, and the little challenges of daily life started to emerge. The biggest hurdle was my lack of proficiency in Dutch. Navigating life in a country where you don’t understand the language can make you feel like an outsider. These feelings intensify during harsh communication moments, like when you can’t understand someone or when someone is rude to you because of the language barrier.

But then, there are also small victories that make it worthwhile. For instance, the other day, I successfully completed an entire shopping experience in Dutch when purchasing a fan! It felt like a personal triumph, a step toward belonging.

It’s like a dance. At first, every step feels awkward and uncertain. You might stumble, step on toes, or lose the rhythm. But with practice, the steps become natural, and you move with confidence. Living in a new country is similar. Initially, everything feels unfamiliar and challenging. You may make mistakes and feel out of sync with the culture. But gradually, you find your footing, learn the rhythm of daily life, and adapt to the language and customs.

Easier said than done – I know! I’m also slowly finding my footing here. There are days when I wonder if I will ever truly feel at home. Days when I feel like I’m falling short. On those days, I remind myself to give myself grace—the grace to be gentle with myself so I can be strong.

So, do I feel like a stranger in the Netherlands? Sometimes, yes. But just because it feels challenging at times doesn’t mean I’m not exactly where I’m supposed to be. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs, but also with incredible moments of connection and growth. Each day brings me closer to calling this place home

As for ‘How do you know that you are in the right place?’, I reveal it all in Part 2 HERE 👀