I love the Netherlands. It is peaceful yet colorful and vibrant. The canals and architecture make the city a little dreamy. Tourists flock the country to experience the rich culture and how people live their lives. In my heart, it will always be home. But, for now, I long for an adventure outside my comfort zone.

I decided to move to a crowded city that never sleeps. It was one of the biggest decisions I have ever made in my life. Although it is what I expect it to be, adjusting was not as easy as I hoped it would be. Here are some of the difficulties I faced after moving from the Netherlands to New York City to help you manage your expectations, in case you are thinking of doing the same.

Culture shock

New Yorkers are nice and friendly, but they can also come across as rude especially if you are not used to the culture. It is understandable because people are busy. They are always on the go and they seem like they are always rushing to go somewhere. They have places to be and you cannot expect them to just stop and make small talk, all the time. Everyone has a hectic schedule.

Juggling multiple jobs

Rent and cost of living in New York are expensive. You must be willing to work multiple jobs if you want to survive. It is hard and it is not for the faint heart. You must really want to come to this city to be willing to juggle multiple jobs. Make sure that you do not stress yourself out too much and you enjoy what you do. If you feel burned out, you might view the city differently and regret your decision to move.

Tough competition

Like that popular song, New York is a concrete jungle where dreams are made of. People from around the world want to come here and live as a successful New Yorker. But it is not that easy. The competition is tough. Not everyone gets to land their dream job. For those who were able to make it, they have to fight hard to stay where they are or if they want to achieve more.

Everyone seems replaceable. You cannot afford to be lazy because there is always someone waiting on the wings and ready to take your job. But, if you make it New York, you can make it anywhere.

Making new friends

Well, making new friends everywhere in the world is not easy. But I find making friends in New York City a little bit harder. Like what I mentioned, people always got somewhere to be. They work multiple jobs. They are always busy. If you happen to make friends, you cannot expect them to always be there if you need someone to have dinner with.

Fighting loneliness

I guess this is the most difficult part. No matter how alive and crowded the city is, it could be really lonely at times. Like I said, people are always busy. You spend most of your time working different jobs, and you come home to a small apartment. I miss home sometimes, but I don’t regret moving to New York City.

New York City is one of the greatest cities in the world. If you want to live in this city, you must be willing to do everything you can to survive. Although it is not easy, you will get some sort of accomplishment for simply able to survive. The difficulties will only make you stronger and more resilient. It will change you for the better.