Feeling stuck? What expats can do when career clarity feels out of reach

Feeling stuck in your career can be unsettling, but as an expat, it can feel even more disorienting. Many professionals who move to the Netherlands for work, love, or adventure eventually find themselves at a crossroads. The novelty wears off, the job that once excited you feels misaligned, and you begin to wonder: Is this really what I want to do?

You're not alone. Career uncertainty is incredibly common, especially during times of transition. But the good news is, stuckness isn’t a sign of failure. It’s a sign that you’re ready for growth and change. If you’re in that in-between space, no longer fulfilled by your current work, but unsure what comes next, here are five steps to help you find clarity and direction.

1. Acknowledge the stuckness

The first step is to give yourself permission to feel what you feel. Many expats experience pressure to make their international move “worth it,” which can create guilt around dissatisfaction.

But being stuck isn’t a flaw; it’s a sign. Something inside you is seeking alignment, and recognising that is a powerful first step toward change.

Reflection prompt: What about your current situation feels misaligned or frustrating?

2. Pinpoint what’s no longer working

Before you can move forward, you need to understand what’s holding you back. Ask yourself: Is it the nature of the work itself? A lack of growth opportunities? Cultural disconnect within your organisation?

In the Netherlands, for example, workplace culture is often flat and informal, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. While this suits many, others find it difficult to navigate, especially if they’re used to more hierarchical structures or different communication styles.

Tip: Try listing what energises you and what drains you in a typical week. You may start to see patterns in what’s no longer working.

3. Reconnect with your values and strengths

When we feel lost in our careers, it’s often because we’ve become disconnected from what really matters to us. Think back to times when you felt fulfilled at work: What were you doing? Who were you working with? What kind of impact were you having?

As an expat, you’ve already shown a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. This next phase is about aligning your work with who you are now.

Exercise: List three moments from your career where you felt proud or alive. What themes connect them?

4. Experiment before you leap

Clarity doesn’t always come from thinking; it comes from doing. Before making any drastic moves, explore possibilities:

• Have coffee chats with people in roles that interest you
• Attend industry events or expat meetups
• Take a short online course in a topic you’re curious about

In the Netherlands, bakkie doen (grabbing a coffee) is a common and culturally accepted way to network, and people are often open to sharing their career experiences in a relaxed setting.

You may discover that a small shift, such as a new project, a different role or even a new mindset, is enough to reignite your spark.

5. Seek support and structure

You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Career coaches, mentors, or even a trusted friend can help you see blind spots and stay accountable as you navigate your next steps.

If you're employed by a Dutch organisation, check whether they offer professional development budgets or internal coaching support, as many do. Having someone guide you through your transition can accelerate clarity and give you tools to make empowered decisions.

Be brave and find your answers

Feeling stuck is uncomfortable, but it’s also meaningful. It’s your inner compass trying to steer you toward deeper alignment. As an expat, you’ve already taken bold steps to build a life in a new country; now it’s time to bring that same courage and intention to your career.

Career clarity isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about asking the right questions, trusting your instincts, and taking small steps toward what feels more true for you. You’ll never know until you try!