Internationals — we’re always adapting and adjusting, aren’t we?

It’s something I often say to clients, and my family is living it right now.

We are in another transition: our son is finishing basisschool after eight years and moving on to middelbaar school — a whole new system for him and for us as American parents. It’s exciting, a little overwhelming, and very different from what I know from the U.S.

And his independence is taking off like a 4th of July firework — fast, sparkling, loud. I’m proud, but it’s wild! Another adjustment for sure.

Starting middelbaar brings nerves and excitement for all of us. I’m following my own advice: stay curious, be patient, and tackle the tasks (buying new books, a computer, communicating with the school etc.) when I have the bandwidth — especially in a language that isn’t mine. 

Even after 8 years in Amsterdam, these moments still feel new. But I’m reminding myself we’ve done this before — a new school, new systems, while navigating a different culture and language. We know more now, and we have friends to ask for help. 

Fellow internationals, those who have relocated, expats – how do you tackle new situations in your new or not-so-new community?

If you’re navigating a new situation in your international life and need support, I’m here. Contact me and book a free 20-minute chat and bring your challenge to the call. You will leave feeling supported and with a tip or two.