Pause and Reflect - My "Dream" Life in The Netherlands

This morning I awoke well-rested and refreshed (not the norm, sadly). Then a thought came over me while sipping my tea and enjoying fresh, hot croissants right out of the oven. On this morning in the Netherlands, I’m appreciating the beauty of my surroundings and the realization of long-held dreams.

I’m reflecting on my journey of moving to Europe, initially for a relationship but ultimately for personal fulfillment, and how this move has brought me so much calm while alleviating my anxiety and depression.

Despite the challenges of relocating alone at 50, I feel calmer and more content. I want to emphasize the importance of being open to different paths and opportunities, and express gratitude for achieving my dreams. Even though things didn’t play out exactly as I had envisioned, I believe I’m a better version of myself for having taken this risk. I have learned so many new things and been exposed to experiences that would not have been possible otherwise.

I do want to acknowledge the bittersweetness of missing my daughter, who chose her own path and decided not to come. But hopefully, that will become another dream come true for me, and she’ll join me here someday.

Finally, I really want to say how important it is not to get trapped in the cycle of feeling the need to do more, do better, and keep grinding, because it robs you of the ability to slow down long enough to experience joy in quiet moments. And that’s a shame.

I came up with the idea to share my thoughts via audio clips, so click here to hear today's reflection. Thank you and have a wonderful thoughtful day.

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Hi, I'm Ronda Harris, an American in The Netherlands living my 2.0 version of life after a major pivot. Here, I share

my thoughts about life—everything from small business entrepreneurship, to life lessons, to personal reflections.

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