How We Balance Work & Wanderlust in Amsterdam

Greetings from the picturesque canals of Amsterdam! As we sit in an open, beautiful café by the river, sipping on a cup of freshly mint tea (coffee for Shankar Poncelet ) and watching the world go by, we wanted to share some reflections with you.

Amsterdam is often romanticized for its beautiful summer weather, intricate waterways, and plethora of entertainment options. And rightly so. But, for Shankar and myself, this isn't just a leisurely vacation—it's a workcation. You might think that, left to our own devices, we'd spend every day with a night out on the town or strolling along the cobbled streets. But reality paints a different picture. Balancing work and relaxation in this city means that we're expending more mental energy here than we would back home.

Shankar, with his dutiful responsibilities as a son, and I, navigating my role as his partner alongside the bustling demands of the company we co-run, find ourselves in a perpetual whirlwind. The time zone difference further adds a twist. Our work hours stretch from 2 PM to midnight, catering to business needs. And by day? We're engrossed in familial duties, especially with Shankar's mother.

But don't get us wrong—we're not penning this letter with a sense of lament. Quite the contrary. We're filled with gratitude. Grateful for this city that offers the blend of work and relaxation, grateful for the bond we share which makes this dance possible, and endlessly thankful for platforms like LinkedIn that enable us to seamlessly merge different worlds.

Now, here's a little secret: none of this would be possible without a fortified mind. The mental strength and resilience we've built over the years are the pillars supporting this intricate balance. In essence, we're working two days in one, mastering the art of juggling multiple roles.

And this brings us to you. Our journey hasn't been effortless, but it's been incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to what fortified minds can achieve. We challenge you to explore this for yourself.

Take on the Personal Brand Challenge with us and Shanee Moret , (whose latest newsletter is a must-read). Share your experiences. Tag us. Let us know how the strategies allow you to show for yourself and your community no matter what.

Remember, amidst the tulips and canals, the real beauty is in embracing the journey with a resilient mind and showing up consistently. But you don't have to do it alone.

Sending warm wishes and inspiration from Amsterdam.

Mindfully,

Antréa & Shankar Poncelet