Can Anything Prepare You for Living in the Netherlands?
ACCESS Netherlands
The leading source of free personalised English information for internationals, in the Netherlands.
The Value of Preparation
If education is the key to success–however you define it–then what is there to learn and prepare for when moving overseas or crossing borders? As the American tennis player Arthur Ashe once said: “One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation”.
Our Experience at ACCESS
At ACCESS, our mission is to assist newcomers arriving in the Netherlands in finding answers to their questions about living here. Over 38 years, we have learned what can help foster a successful relocation. By success, we mean that people adjust to, settle in well, and make the most of living here. We have responded to a myriad of questions, ranging from how the healthcare system works, to where to find a school, to what the options are for dual careers (employment for accompanying spouses). We know that regardless of one’s? preparation before arrival, there will be questions–this is inevitable. Preparing to live in and educating oneself about the Netherlands can ensure that the questions arising do not ‘shock’. Not everyone has the luxury of time to prepare for a move. But it is never too late to learn–to educate oneself not only about the Netherlands, but also about one’s own assumptions, expectations and perspectives.
The Power of Awareness
“You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know”. It may seem obvious, but time and again, we find that people are surprised and taken aback by how things are done in the Netherlands, what their lives have actually become, and/or what they struggle with the most. In regard to preparing for an international move, know this: it will be different to what you expect, are used to, or assume.?
Knowing how things will differ from where you are coming from can significantly prepare you for everyday life. Sometimes, you may perceive things as ‘better’ here, while other times, the opposite. Ultimately, every new place offers unique experiences that shape your perceptions. Being aware of this is the first step towards cultivating curiosity, which empowers you to ask questions rather than make assumptions. Wonder ‘why’ in an attempt to understand.
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Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
A Wealth of Resources
People are moving to the Netherlands for many reasons. Borders are easily transcended, and careers may be more varied. Many people are on the move, and a wealth of resources has evolved: from cultural training, blogs for sharing experiences, social media communities, books written by people who have navigated such transitions, coaches and trainers who specialise in assisting international families and careers, and more. ACCESS can suggest numerous resources to support your transition to the Netherlands. In addition, our Training and Counselling Networks have professionals who can support and assist the international community.?
As Albert Einstein said, “I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” Imagine what this curiosity could mean for your own experience of moving to and living in the Netherlands.
“It is never too late to educate oneself not only about the Netherlands, but about one’s own assumptions, expectations, and perspectives.”
Revised from an article originally written for Xpat Journal in 2018.
Curious about living in the Netherlands? Share your experiences or questions in the comment section! How did you prepare for your move? Or, if you're planning a move, what are you most curious about??
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