Trusting Effortlessness

I've always believed in effortlessness, the idea that the Universe will always have my back. I trust that I will always be where I need to be with what I need, including money. This belief has guided me through life's twists and turns, bringing me to where I am today.

Following My Heart to Bali

In February 2019, I came to Bali, searching for clarity about what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.

My heart whispered that I needed to move here, so I did.

Two years later, I found myself caring for my mom in the Netherlands. I didn't want to be there, but I knew I would be grateful later if I stayed.

And I was right. Those last months together became a precious gift, a time I will always treasure.

Returning to a Changed Bali

Bali, however, was not the same.

The island had changed during the years of the pandemic.

My daughter's school, the main reason for returning, had relocated and lost its unique vibe. Many students had left as their families moved back to their home countries.

Friends I'd once relied on had also gone.

The island felt different.

Land and property prices had skyrocketed thanks to wealthy buyers who didn't hesitate to overpay. As a Dutchie, I couldn't understand this.

Stricter regulations also meant I couldn't work here.

I had made some investments, but it was not clear if this would be a smashing success or an epic fail.

I thought I'd found love, but I hadn't.

My daughter now studies from home instead of attending school, and I find myself asking, "Why am I here?"

Exploring What Comes Next

The only thing I'm sure of is that I don't want to return to the Netherlands.

My kids, however, are talking about moving to Spain. They're excited about the idea, but I'm hesitant. I've just started speaking basic Bahasa Indonesia, and now they want me to learn Spanish? And let's not forget how hard it was to find vegan food in Spain, and the cold weather!

Moving to Spain feels like starting over again, just when I've finally settled.

My son's friends are moving to Bali soon and plan to live with him.

Meanwhile, my daughter and I would need to find a new place, but I'm unsure how that will unfold with skyrocketing rental prices.

And yet, I feel calm. I know it will all work out.

It already is.

Trusting the Universe

What keeps me grounded is my trust in the Universe.

This belief makes it easier to adapt to life's uncertainties. I've learned to take things
one step at a time and to let life unfold without forcing it.

My next step is simple: head to the beauty salon for a cream bath for my hair, enjoy a
lovely dinner and end the evening with some good laughs at the Comedy Club.

Life is good.

How can it get any better than this?

Well, I did it all, and as a bonus, I went to Carmen’s Wine Bar to dance to some great music.