Hello, Netherlands!

I can barely contain my excitement as I begin the process of immigrating from the United States to the Netherlands this year. The many months of researching the country has really been eye opening for me. The majestic country sides to the beautiful city squares are mesmerizing. But as the biggest move I've ever made - and an international one at that- is definitely anxiety provoking!

So how am I managing that anxiety?

• Taking time to sit down and organize

I feel like I am someone who constantly has a million "to-do" tasks running through my head. How will I get a visa? What about a bank account? How do I file taxes in the Netherlands, and in the United States as an expat? How will I get my cats there safely? And how am I supposed to find an apartment in the competitive housing market in Amsterdam?!

Too many of those thoughts, and I feel exhausted and ready to call it quits. So instead of constantly thinking about everything that has to be done, I intentionally mark a time in my calendar each day to check in about where I'm at. That way, when I find myself worrying about it during the day, I can tell myself "it's okay to not think of that right now- I have a particular time today that I am going to focus on those issues". It has really helped me focus on other things in my life.

• Asking for help

Moving to another country is a huge undertaking. Even small things are different; for example, a friend explained to me the other day about how trash collection works in Amsterdam, and it is completely different than it is here in the States. Those little things can be a big shock when you're not expecting them, and asking for help or advice from an expert can help relieve a lot of anxiety.

Personally, I am utilizing an immigration lawyer through Adam & Wolf Immigration Lawyers, based out of Amsterdam. Stephan, who has been helping me, has been so patient in answering all my questions, and clearly outlined the steps I need to take to legally immigrate to the Netherlands. There are many immigration lawyers available, and while there are costs associated with utilizing an immigration service, for me the reduction in my stress is worth it!

• Remembering to practice self-care

When there's a big life event in front of you, like a move, it is easy to get caught up in feeling like you have to be constantly preparing for it. While being ready is great, it shouldn't come at the cost of your wellbeing. Not giving yourself time to rest can result in simple mistakes that become big problems later, not to mention all the impact chronic stress has on your body!

For me, I have intentionally set aside time for fun and self-care. I made time to play Dungeons and Dragons with friends; I would cuddle with my cats when I was feeling overwhelmed; I focused on housework so that the pile of dishes in the sink didn't stress me out more. Whatever self-care looks like to you, make sure you get plenty of it even when it feels like there's no time.

Even good things can cause stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and other overwhelming feelings. This is normal! But there are active steps, like the ones outlines above, that you can take to help alleviate the worst of those negative emotions. Find what works for you, and if it feels like nothing is working, then contact me to set up a session!

-Aiden