A year ago, I bid farewell to Romania and kickstarted a new adventure in the Netherlands. I was driven by a desire to update my professional life, as my out-of-the-box thinking clashed with societal norms back home. The professional game I was playing didn’t align with my principles, so I decided to switch things up. And boy, did I make a game-changing move! It’s now the second best decision of my life, with the first being a no-brainer – becoming a mother!

While it’s customary to thank those who’ve supported us, why not take a moment to pat ourselves on the back? Sure, people may judge, but it’s important to celebrate our achievements, too. I’m immensely grateful for my family’s genetics, education, and unwavering support. They provided me with the resources and courage to make a career change. My parents, in particular, instilled in me the mantra of never giving up. Lastly, I’m indebted to every person I’ve encountered in my professional journey – each interaction has taught me something new.

My experience in the Netherlands has been a game-changer, too. It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I’ve discovered that it’s one of my superpowers! I’m even adding it to my resume. Who knew that taking a chance on a different path could lead to such personal and professional growth? I didn’t plan out all the details, but it turns out that it was the right move for me and my family. Changing the game, when you can’t change the rules to be fair, is a hard thing to do, but ultimately worth it.

When it comes to seeing the world, two sets of eyes are better than one! With a Eastern and Western European perspective, you see the world with double the insights! ?