I've been living in the Netherlands for six years. People often say, "This country never stops surprising me." But that's not quite how I feel.

Instead, it feels like I've found people whose way of thinking is very similar to mine.

I grew up in Eastern Europe, where people are often described as emotional, spontaneous, and sometimes wonderfully chaotic. I've always been the opposite. I like planning ahead. I enjoy making thoughtful decisions, spending money intentionally, and finding practical solutions to everyday problems.

I've lived in several countries, including Japan. But it's in the Netherlands that I've learned the most about living logically, using my time wisely, and finding joy in ordinary life.

Here are the Dutch habits that have become part of my everyday routine.