Waiting in line? No we don't, but we do wait our turn. And when it is my turn it is MY turn, "line"-jumpers will get the Dutch directness when they try to go first.
But what if you are shy? It's ok if you are assertive but you know the saying: "de brutalen hebben de halve wereld". You also wait in line for the kassa. And we also need nummertjes bij de apotheek etc.
I don't stand in line, true. But I do know perfectly well when it's my turn and if someone wants to skip the line when it;s my turn I will tell them. It's kind of a adult Memory game, lol.
@@justmandy6572 I like that. An adult memory game, indeed. I, too find that if I’m in a shop with a lot of customers, I’m making mental notes: lady in green sweater, couple with stroller, man with walking stick….so I know who’s next. 😊
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 It's all about speaking up, on markets that is. When you visit the butcher or cheese shop, usually people are very aware and will even say: hey, you're up. And indoors there usually also is a ticket holder. You just tear off your ticket and wait for the number to be called, though not all use this system.
The lines are on a first come first serve basis. There are no physical lines, but mental lines. Remember which number you are. When it's busy, always ask who is the last person, so you know you're after him/her. When someone comes in after you, you tell him/her that you're the last in line.
I am loving all your videos, Mike! My husband and I came to Amsterdam this past July. He was there to attend an academic conference and I was happy to explore on my own. I studied Dutch for 7 months before our trip, and it included forays into Belgium and Luxembourg. Our favorite was the 3 days we spent in Delft for the Delft Chamber Music Festival. As a former managing director of a chamber music fest in my area, the time in Delft was magical. Amsterdam was so much fun too. Kinderdijk windmills were much more impactful than we imagined they’d be. In short, we long to return to the Netherlands and envy you and the choices you made in life that we wish we had earlier.
@@kristlummi Thank you so much for your heartwarming message. I know exactly how you feel about the Netherlands. It possesses a certain intangible something that is, indeed, magical. As you know, I fell in love with this country so many years ago, and there isn’t a day that goes by that I am not grateful for my life here. Coming to this country was the greatest adventure of my life and the best thing I ever did. I am the happiest I have ever been. I wish the same happiness for you and your husband and sincerely hope the two of you will soon find your way back “home”. ❤️
I'm a Dutch Man living in AZ USA for over 30 years according to my wife,kids( American) telling me I'm cheap (frugal)and very direct guess old habits never die. Like your videos.
@@donaldvanberkum8666 Thanks so much, Donald. I appreciate the compliment. I guess you can take the Dutchman out of the Netherlands, but you can’t take the Dutch out of the man! 🇳🇱 🇺🇸
The only line we make is at the registers of the supermarket 😊 I had to laugh very hard about the "adult memory game" of the other commenter. Sometimes though, for instance when at the baker or butcher or something, people ask: who was last in? And then they keep an eagle eye on that person to know when it's their own turn. But: spot on Mike! 😊😂
From my personal experience it is not appreciated to go before your turn. We may not form a nice line, but the social custom is to remember the people who were already there, and also the people that came in after you. It takes a bit of skill but it should be clear to everyone present whose turn it is next (believe me, everyone is acutely aware!). I have personally had to learn this skill from a very young age as my mother would send me out to the butcher's where I learned the hard way. If you do jump the line, don't be surprised if the person whose turn it is to step forward and put you in your place :) Where this system completely falls apart is getting on the bus when you're commuting. Then it's every man for himself! No mr. nice guy.
@@TheHighlander71 Yes, you are right about boarding the buses (and trains). Every man for himself, indeed. It still surprises me, considering how organized everything else is in this remarkable country. 🤔
Oh yeah, the ‘voordringen’ at a market stall or in a small shop: just claim your place! F.i. like my 5’9" mom, who once said: don’t pretend you managed to overlook me. ;-)
"The Dutch are opinionated and I'm sure they'll let me know in the comments" is so very true, made me laugh out loud 🤣 Frugality isn't necessarily being cheap, but more to get the highest quality and durability for the lowest price available. And we're proud of it. And most of it is already said about waiting in line, but yes, in the days I grew up (mainly eighties) there was a number system ("nummertje trekken") available on the busier days, which seem to be less around nowadays. If there wasn't, I was taught to ask who is last in line to know when it was my turn. I still do exactly that to date. And I'll definitely let you politely, but firmly know if you're skipping the line.
@@AbeIJnst Thanks for your comment. I’m glad to give you a good laugh (the best medicine, they say). 😊 Maybe we can start a nationwide petition to bring back the “nummertje trekken” system. Life seemed so much easier in the eighties, eh? In the meantime, I am going to employ the practice of asking who is last in the line. So simple and so effective. 👍
The dutch may be frugal about every day costs and be prepared to look for every way to reduce them. But when it comes to donating money for people in need they are quite generous. Have you heard about 'Serious Request' and ´Franky and Coen´, the latter being two dutch men serving free french fries in the war-torn Donbas in Ukraine?
@@oldebarneveldt5326 It’s true: the Dutch are leaders in charitable contributions. In my video about why the Dutch are so happy, it’s one of the reasons I list as contributing to their happiness. I know about “Serious Request” but had not heard of “Franky and Coen”. That is really remarkable. Thanks for letting me know about that incredible initiative. The Netherlands never ceases to amaze me. 👍
In the past (when I was young / previous century), many shops had a ticket system (volgnummersysteem). When entering the shop you took a numbered ticket from the dispenser near the entrance. At the counter there was a small screen that indicated which number is next (IKEA still uses this but in a more digital format). Using this system there was no need to que or to form a line. Perhaps that habit stayed; now it is a kind of adult memory game. Sometimes a new person entering a shop asks around who was last so he/she knows when his/her turn is.
Not being married doesn't imply universal free love or that no child knows its father growing up. It means that not all Dutch feel the need to have their long term, probably more monogamous and longlasting than a typical American marriage, relationship either blessed by the skyfather or registered by the state.
In the Netherlands it is good custom to scan the crowd and see who comes first, second, third. It is also good custom to ask if it is your turn and be flexible about it. A disabled person, elderly or child can get ahead for instance. This only works if they other persons have the same courtesy.
Talking about the weather is a way of starting a conversation. You should not take this too seriously. And like others mention about not forming a line, we really do know when it’s our turn and will claim our place if someone tries to be first. Many year’s ago we didn’t lunch at work but we went home to enjoy a warm lunch, what is our evening dinner right now. People worked close to their jobs, children went home halfway schooldays. Everything was on a short distance. And yes, this agenda is a very interested point. I would not know how to function without it. Though everyone is always welcome at any moment to step into my house or studio.
@@NL-001 Thanks so much for your comment. Interesting what you say about people working close to their jobs back in the day. The good ol’ days, indeed. In some ways, with remote working, maybe we are returning to our “roots”. 😊
The smoking ban was done under a false flag, protecting the employees of the bar. So the owners of bars who had no employees said this is not about us. It's a problem of bad legislation and politicians not daring to properly state their real goa with it. People do wait their turn, but you have to claim it and be assertive, also to speed up things.
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Yes, stand your ground. You make sure who is in front of you and you are seen by the shop keeper, when it's that person's turn you signal it is not your turn but that person was first, than they know you are probably next and as soon as that customer is almost done with, you claim your turn with a hand gesture. People do wait their turn but not when it's unclear you are ready to order or just don't seem nearly as hurried as them. Govt was simply not ready to tell the 'we decide that ourselves' crowd which certainly exist that they are going to be bullied in a healthier lifestyle in order to get very old and make health care both more expensive and profitable. So they tried to do it through pretending to protect a third party, the employee, which would be more legitimate.
@ Ah, that’s a good tip about signaling to the shopkeeper who is next, thereby making it known that I’m the one after. I’m going to give that a whirl the next time I’m at the market. Thanks for that. 👍
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Or the 2nd one after, it's about showing you respect the order and you'll have their attention when you claim your turn. Make sure that you are seen before it's your turn is the most important. We fail to make cueing too orderly and relaxed, having to stand up for ourselves possibly, we can never be sure, but it is there. I once was just walking into a store with about 10 people waiting to be served. I did't even make it to the counter yet when she asked "Who's turn is it?" and I said "Ja, ik." with still having meters to go to join the the cluster waiting. All the heads turning with mad looks soon followed by the relief it was just a joke, tells all about the norms as well as the underlying tension of someone disrespectung our time and equality by trying to jump the cue and having to speak up.
Nice videos Mike. In response to your question: I find it a bit annoying the lack of queues, especially at the market. At the bakeries that is usually solved by asking: who was last in line? Asserting it is your turn, when someone takes a too early turn, usually leads to apologies.
@@renexener Thanks so much for your good words. I definitely need to fine-tune my technique when it comes to negotiating the lack of lines. I’m going to practice at the market on Saturday. 👍
Standing in line is a thing if you can defend the line by words. I once saw this grandma say to a very tall musculair biker gang member (hells angels) that he skipped the line. And she wasnt talking for herself, but for some student she did not know. The hells angels guy apologized because he knew he was skipping the line. And thats generally how it works. If they skip the line, call them out and they back off straight away. If you think there is confussion, just say :"hee I am sorry, I think I was first." Thats ussually enough.
The “complaining” is also for our peace of mind. You get something of your chest instead of letting it fester….😊. Makes it better and you don’t have to think about it again. Plus it is our honesty. We say what we mean.
@@leilanacroese3240 That’s a good point, and it makes perfect sense to me. I really like the Dutch approach and am learning to be more like this myself. I’m a work in progress. 😊
@@psvensso Thank you. 😊 Makes me think of the lyrics of that wonderful song ‘Smile’ by none other than Charlie Chaplin: Smile though your heart is aching Smile even though it's breaking When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by If you smile through your fear and sorrow Smile and maybe tomorrow You'll see the sun come shining through for you Light up your face with gladness Hide every trace of sadness Although a tear may be ever so near That's the time you must keep on trying Smile, what's the use of crying? You'll find that life is still worthwhile If you just smile…
On "marriage", there's little or no stigma for partners living together, in a sexual relationship, without being married. It's almost universal for couples to live together for a few years, and even have children together, before getting married,
@@bartman49 Yes, I have noticed this tendency among my Dutch friends. My partner and I were together for 15 years before we got married. We must be becoming Dutch. 😃
Yes, many, especially older people, take a pack of bread to work. I think that has to do with our eating habits: people eat a sandwich at noon. That + the fact that you often only have half an hour to have lunch at work, makes it normal to take your own lunch with you. As for forming a queue: We just don't have that habit.
Hi Mike! 5:26 True, However; I have no opinion on anyone's opinion; everyone has a fundamental right to their opinion. We will just try to make you see (with gentle persuasion) that our view on the matter is best.
at a market stall the vendors would usually work customers frrom right to left, so no need for a queu, line, it is the same as ordering in a bar, most customers would scan the other customers for where they stand in order in the group and yes sometimes you have to stand your ground to get served.
@@gekkegerrit933 Thanks, Gerrit. Unfortunately, at the market, I rarely see a right-to-left formation. It’s more of a free-for-all formation. 😂 But I’m learning to stand my ground. 👍
Hi there! 😂...Your video makes me even more proud to be Dutch! Personally I recognize myself in all 10 stereotypes! You're right..I also have to mention that we Dutch have a lot of selfspot.. Most of all I'm proud of being Dutch..This tiny country that's hardly to find on the world map, was the first country in the world that legalized same sex marriage!.. I mean this who would have thought that this tiny country would mark a significant milestone in history...
@@Joseetje1982 Hi there. I’m so happy you watched my video. Thank you for your comment. You have every reason to be proud of the Netherlands. Tiny but mighty! ❤️🌈😊
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I'm also proud of the Dutch humor: sarcastic, blunt and edgy..One of the video's that went viral across the world is "America first, Netherlands second" (Arjen Lubach - De Avond show)..
@ Yes, I remember that video. Indeed, the Dutch have a special, refined and often subtle sense of humor. So many of my Dutch colleagues crack me up with their wry one-liners. A very witty bunch! 😊
No lines, that's true but everyone is expected to go in order of arrival, that's the social norm, skipping ahead is considered rude, could be an honest mistake, could be an selfish inconsiderate person. Depends on your personality/mood and the situation whether or not you call em out, in case of a dispute everyone there might get involved and give their two cents on who is in the right 😀. In very crowded shops when you enter and it unclear after whom it's your turn, you can ask who is last, and you just have to keep an eye on that one.
@@adpop750 I am learning that asking “who is last” is customary, something that most Dutch learned at an early age. It is certainly something that I will start doing. Thanks for your comment. 🙏
Haha Yup, us Dutchies are quite opinionated, you're going to hear our thoughts on something whether you like it or not! 😂 Ahh yes the line or lack thereof, you have to be a bit assertive and also pay attention to who came first. So for example when being asked who's next I will say who was first and when it's my turn, this way everyone(the caissière and the customers) knows what's what. But of course some people are just rude and try to skip the line, I that case I will definitely speak up. (it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine) Mike you look extra relaxed today, that bath yesterday must have been heaven. 😊 Oh and I hope your husband is doing ok and his mom is hopefully feeling a bit better. 🙏🌷
@@BabzV I’m with you all the way when it comes to the fine art of negotiating the lack of lines. I’m still refining my technique. I do feel more relaxed today…and refreshed. The bath helped, and I enjoyed a good night’s sleep, so I woke up with enthusiasm, excited about making this video. Meanwhile, my husband looks more relaxed, too. His mother’s surgery was a success, and she is home recuperating. ❤️🩹 I spoke with her yesterday. She looked vibrant and full of life. She is a force! Must be all that sunshine and those hot peppers 🌶️ in Mexico. 🇲🇽 Thank you so much for asking. I told my husband, and he was touched by the outpouring of affection in the comments. Enjoy your evening, Babs. Kisses to the kitties. 🐈⬛ 🐈
Ahh you see, it was the good news about your husbands' mom that made you look extra relaxed today I think. 😊 I'm very glad to hear she's doing better, and I believe that Mexicans are quite family oriented? So I'm sure having her family around her does her a lot of good. 😊 My little guy just came to lay on my lap and my sweet girl is already dreaming away in the bedroom.. 🐈⬛🐈⬛😴 After a long day their human isn't far behind. 😂😴😴 Anywhoooooo....have a wonderful evening Mike. 🌷 .
@ Thanks, Babs. I wish you a good evening as well. 💤 Mexico is indeed family oriented. It’s such a big family, too. So many brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews! Such a contrast to my own family, which I could count on one hand. 🖐️
Hey Mike goeiemorgen, I hear ya I have a small family myself, my dad and my brother and his kids. Btw, look at your sub count, you're going up fast my friend. 😃 I personally like your channel because of you(of course, your personality) but also because I get to see my own country/culture through a different lens. It's freezing over here in Limburg and it's foggy, it's kind of nice actually. 😊 I hope you have a great day Mike. 🌷
@ Goeiemorgen Babs. Groetjes uit mistig Haarlem. I’m so glad you like my channel. I am thrilled to see the subs increasing. 😊 I am pleased to spread the good word about the big wonders of this little country. ❤️ 🇳🇱
1 When it comes to appointments, for me it's more that I don't want to keep the other person waiting. We take our appointments seriously. 2 Complaining, yes, but maybe it's more of a healthy outlet. And usually it's about the weather... how bad is your life if that's the worst thing to complain about ;-) 3 Letting people look inside has a long tradition. Just search for the word 'Pronkkamer' 4 , 5 and 6 Yes. 7 When there's no wind and it's not too cold, it can be wonderful to be outside. If you're already inside a lot (in the winter), a breath of fresh air is wonderful. 8 yes. 9 Not the best example I think, there are certainly others to be found. 10 has already been answered several times by others in the chat
@@NL2500 Thanks for your reply. 😊 Another example of Dutch rule-breaking would be that, during COVID, frequent (and illegal) protests occurred, and shops, museums and nightclubs opened despite regulations to stay shut. And, historically speaking, there was the Dutch Revolt. 🙌
I know that for foreigners it is strange to see colleagues bring lunch from home, let alone drink milk 😮 (for some reason it is seen as a kids drink? With cookies!!), but I like to add that it is also about healthyness. Buying a sandwich means more coldcuts/cheese or added condiments like mayonaise, butter etc. If you order a sandwich (let us not start on junkfood like burrito's and such) you will eat much more, pay much more, and get all these extra's that you did not want in the first place. Like your vlogs by the way, it is funny that you are being soooo carefull not to hurt our very sensitive Dutch hearts! And even then...some people find some things offensive... unbelievable. (Other video: You have to like a kroket and you have to know the ingredients...🙄). For me having the curtains open (a bit) is also about safety: I do not feel save in a street where alle curtains are closed! Looking outside when you hear some one scream or a metal crash sound (bike accudent?)...it is also about social control. Can be a good thing or a bad thing... I make it a good thing by watching out for myself and my street. Would love to live in your street! Love Haarlem and you have a beautiful house with slide doors with 'glas-in-lood'.... 😍
Thank you so much for your encouraging words. They mean a lot. I do make an effort to be positive and to see the bright side of things, and - indeed - I do my best not to offend. And, still, as you have noted, people are offended or overly critical. In any case, I am heartened by your good words. I like what you say about the open curtains. I leave mine open, too, and definitely like to be able to look out at a moment’s notice. You make a very good point; part of it is about safety. Thank you for the compliment about my house. I am very happy with my little benedenwoning, and I like my quiet street and, of course, I am very much in love with Haarlem. ❤️
To me it seems it is often older people who jump the line. Keeping in mind that they are old and probably tired, most of the time I just let them because I find it not worth it. When younger people jump the line I will say I was there first. From the way they behave I usually know they know I am right. But 95% of the time everyone present takes the line into account, even though there is no actual line. It comes down to not hesitating when asked who is next and it is your turn, because people will take advantage otherwise.
@@vinkie5392 That’s an interesting observation. Maybe older people jump the line because they have less time to spare. In any case, it’s nice of you to let them. I often say, “life is one long lesson in letting go”. So, I suppose this may be another opportunity to breathe in and let go. 🧘♂️
Rule breaking is also a national sport, the moment the government makes a new rule, we find ways to break it. Example, the speed camera is a Dutch invention which is used a lot, in the beginning cars going the other way signaled the other way with their lights that there was a speed camera active! In the village I lived there was such a traffic control and people of an apartment building hanged a sign with a warning to slow down! Later the radar controlled speed cameras were confronted with radar scanners, so the government did forbid those radar scanners, and so they took the radar controls up into TomTom maps, first only the stationary but later also the dynamic. Now it’s even on the radio where there are active radar controls, and if you pay an amount you have a life upgrade on all active radar controls and shows it on Google maps! (The standard radar controls are a free standard option now)
Amazing. The Dutch are not only rule breakers, they are mad geniuses! I love that these technologies exist thanks to the ingenuity of the Dutch! Thanks for your comment. 👍
We indeed complain about everything! LOL mostly because it's an outlet for us. The word seek means to go in search of, try to discover , try to acquire. It requires an active, assertive approach to life. Even at the market place. However if they did skip the line, i would tell them HELL NO LOL The agenda is necessary because family/friendstime, worktime, healthtime and you time comes before anything else! Hence the agenda LOL and ofcourse to remember your appointments. One thing that is important to us, is we don't have time to waste with nonsence and get straight to the point! I love that by dutch people! And you are now one of us LOL very observant, straighforward, honest and kind. So welcome to the club Mike LOL
@@CarpeDiem-gi3yz Thanks so much. I appreciate the warm welcome, and I count my blessings to be considered one of the Dutch bunch. It’s a small but illustrious club, and I am proud to be an honorary member. 😊
Most things are already mentioned i see. I didnt read all but about the forme a line part. No line is a social aspect. I read a lot of comments about people jumping the line and we would put them in their place. Its true. But there is also a nice opposit too it. When the bussinesowner start speaking too someone but it isnt their turn. Most of the time people will say. No sorry, he/she was before me so help them first😜
To avoid fights about who's turn it is, we invented the nummertjesautomaat. When you arrive, you take a ticket with a number on it. It's your turn when this number appears on a 'clock' on the wall. It's nice to hear what things we Dutch are famous for! 😂
@@jeanettecardol6028 Thank you, Jeanette. I love that invention. 😃 The Dutch have invented so many amazing things: from the microscope and telescope to the submarine and WiFi/bluetooth/CDs/DVDs…the list goes on and on. ❤️ 🇳🇱
Je bevindingen kloppen voor 100% , en betreft het niet vormen van een rij is omdat iedereen weet wanneer hij of zij aan de beurt is. Voorkruipen wordt de kop ingedrukt zeker als ik mijn vrouw bij me heb . Love your Chanel ❤
I don’t stand in line but I surely observe and wait for the person who is last coming. Or I ask nice who is last. Or when I will be asked if I want to bye something on a stand and I know somebody arrived before me I will say so..
My impression is that in the US if you are not married, you are considered to be single. In the Netherlands you are not single if you are in a serious relationship.
@@jannegeraedts9520 There certainly is/was a stigma in the U.S. associated with not being married. It seems that many Americans regard that with some degree of suspicion. That may be changing; I don’t know. But I definitely sense that there are nowhere near as many hang-ups over here….about a lot of things. 😊 🇳🇱
Hi Mike, you're a keen observer and you score a perfect ten out of ten. As a Dutchman I find #10 most annoying. I am always pleasantly surprised when visiting the US how well people form a line and newcomers politely ask if you are the end of the line. When driving in the US I am always amused by alway stop intersections, that is something Dutch drivers could never handle 😅
I have fine-tuned the break-the-line. Why? Because my time is precious and if I don't do it, someone else might. Then more time is lost. But you have to do it sofisticated and swift. Like when, in the supermarket, they say register 2 is open: I am already there... ;-) I like your observations, keep them going. A thing about the Dutch is that they respect your opinion (as long as it is Western orientated (sorry). We are tolerant towards people we can relate to.
@@Klierland12 It sounds like you have mastered the fine art of linelessness. 😊 Thanks for your encouraging words; they mean a lot. I can’t really comment on the conditional quality of Dutch tolerance, but I suppose - like most people - they could be more comfortable with what is familiar. I do think people have a tendency to fear the unknown. Thanks for weighing in on this. 👍
Not standing in line... they just try and they expect more or less to be called out for that (brutally honest ;-) but when nobody reacts, they take their chance. btw Mike, I really love your way of talking. Your message comes over very clear to me. I really wished more USA TH-camrs did the same. Most of them look like they are pushing to sell something.. and I dislike that.
On "not waiting in lines" it's not typical Dutch. Dutch people that do that are called 'brutaal' and 'asociaal'. And it forces the other ones to either accept it or be assertive. But personally I think it's better in for example the UK.
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 There are a lot of Dutch people that would love that 'rule'. The Dutch are not perfect at all and the so called 'anarchy-gene' is always at the cost of others. Especially for the introvert or shy people.
Not queuing would indeed surprise you because we are so organised. But we have also been a stubborn and not always law-abiding people for centuries. You have in fact guessed correctly that it relates to your quote in your previous point ‘Dat moeten we toch lekker zelf weten’. And also think of the song '15 miljoen mensen.' 15 miljoen mensen op dat hele kleine stukje aarde / Die schrijf je niet de wetten voor / Die laat je in hun waarde. But don't be mistaken, not queing doesn't mean we are rude people who don't care for others but themselves. So I endorse what I see others commenting that we do keep an eye on who's up. I also recognise the question: who was last? I am very sorry if your experience is different and you have experienced multiple instances of someone pushing forward. But that, also in the Netherlands, is not common and normal behaviour and in fact has nothing to do with queuing or not.
@@archangel0009 Thanks for weighing in on this. I appreciate the distinction you have made between not queuing and rudeness. I do think the occasional incidents that I have experienced are the exception and not the norm. You know I love it here. ❤️ Thanks, too, for providing those insightful song lyrics. They speak volumes. 😃
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I totally believe that you don't think Dutch people are simply rude, you testify to that in your blogs which are very thoughtful and well-articulated. Besides, there are always exceptions to the rule. Such is the case of the legendary Dutch ‘get there on time. I have a friend who always arrives half an hour late for an appointment by default. So I always take a book with me when I meet up with him 🙂
And can I also suggest a topic? The contrast between the Randstad and the countryside. Of course, you certainly have that contrast in the US. But also here. You sometimes see the frustration among people in the east, especially farmers. And I too have those prejudices. For example, I was in Friesland in a small town called Ferwerd in the middle of nowhere. There was absolutely nothing there by our suburban standards. And then in the etalgae of one of those picturesque houses I saw poetic texts and photos by the Dalai Lama and German artist Joseph Beuys. And I was surprised to find that there of all places. Turned out it was the studio of Louwrien Wijers. She once organised a big conference at the Stedelijk museum Amsterdam ‘Art Meets Science and Spirituality in a Changing Economy.’ Here she brought together artists, scientists, spiritual leaders and economists. Guests included the Dalai Lama, Robert Rauschenberg, John Cage, Ilya Prigogine, Lawrence Weiner, Stanislav Menshikov, Marina Abramovic en Fritjov Capra. In panels they would discuss art, science, spirituality and economics. The registration of the panels became a "mental sculpture," a five-part video artwork, one part for each day.
@ So true. There are always exceptions. The Canadian author and political philosopher once said, “Nothing is absolute, with the debatable exceptions of this statement and death”.
@ That’s a worthy topic. And what a great story you’ve shared, which challenges so many stereotypes. It reminds me of a video I watched recently about the smartest man on the planet, Christopher Langan (with an IQ between 195-210), who is a horse rancher in Missouri. The conference you speak of sounds extraordinary. How I would have loved to have been there. What a fantastic feat to bring together so many remarkable minds from the realms of art, science and spirituality in one place at one time. Fantastic! Thanks for sharing. ❤️
My personal (Dutch) view of lines is from the past, look at the military parades from the past. Lines are a feeling of control over you, a must do, everybody needs to be the same. In opposite no lines are more a feeling of freedom. Even if lines need to be formed they are chaotic.This for me relates also to the subject of conforming. I conform often as that is most efficient and was agreed as group consensus, but I value the diferences and values of the individual even more. Not sure this is true and I'm pretty sure a scientifc paper is around this,.
That’s a compelling theory. You certainly make a good case for being flexible, which is a worthy aim. Thanks for weighing in on the subject. I appreciate your perspective. 🙏
About no.2 Complaining about the weather is in our genes Mike, we can't help ourselfs. About no.10 So true. Maybe thats where our directness comes from by confronting line jumpers. Compare that to the neat queuing in the U.K. Have a happy new year Mike.
@@Aad-wv3fq I hear you. I confess, it’s easy to complain about the weather here. Almost every day provides a perfect opportunity. 😉 I never thought about what you said re: no. 10. It makes perfect sense. It’s certainly an excellent opportunity to practice my directness, my inner-Dutchman. ❤️
"dat moeten we toch lekker zelf weten", dat kan veel korter: durmazon It is an expression from an old tv series: Het Schaap met de Vijf Poten (I never saw it bc I do not like watching telly) used by many then and so I learned it, meaning: D'ur mag zoveel niet. In a way we are rebellious, but we lack the courage to proceed I guess. Or it is bc we do not like real chaos. The Dutch are very much alike with Germans, but they do make revolution and maybe we learned, once you start there will be a follow up. And again. We had a war for 80 years, the Germans only 30 at the time.
@@margreetdoodeman1441 Durmazon. I like that. A very abbreviated way of expressing the sentiment. Perhaps the Dutch enjoy controlled chaos. Makes me think of the Haarlem branch of the Hell’s Angels (motorcycle gang) that I once saw sipping cappuccinos. 🏍️ ☕️
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 i see that, makes me laugh. Rather not meet them though. On the other hand we have this saying that the outside is tough, but the inside like a baby (klein hartje).
no waiting lines? No, well for some things yes we do have them, but in general no waiting line, but everybody knowes their turn (and other ones turn). Why no waiting lines? I guess, we - in general - don't like te be just a member of a group - read: army, read: sheep - we like our individuality. We have learned to think for ourselves, do things only whe we agree etc.
@@PaulStruijk Thanks for your comment, Paul. I find it especially interesting because I always thought that the Dutch were more comfortable as a member of a group, i.e. “steek je kop niet boven het maaiveld uit”. I got the impression that the Dutch prefer to “stay in their lane”, so to speak. I could be wrong, of course, and I certainly don’t want to generalize. In any case, I find it fascinating to observe people and cultures, and I appreciate you sharing your perspective. Thanks so much for watching my video. 😊
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 thank you! Maybe I have not found the deeper reason yet, but I am thinking and observing just like you: maybe the freedom to be part of a group is important. Waiting in a line is not a free choice when on airport etc, freedom to be a memberof a football club / supporter group .. Meaning I guess: as long as we are free we can be part of a group. Also to see clearly in a family , it seems to mee the importance of family in NL is not ij general as big as in Spain, Italy etc .. many people fnd their real family, their real group they belong too .. Or called 'something', we like to be seen as a person .. here is somewhere I believe the answer to the why people prefer to wait in a loose group of people in front of a market stall. I will keep searching and observing the Dutch and the Italians and the Americans etc. Thanks for your great video's.
@ Thanks again, Paul, for your observations and support. I appreciate your good words. You and me both…we’ll keep being keen observers of human nature. It’s fun and, in the end, I suppose it tells us something about ourselves. 😊
Yes it is a big divide. The south is way better. It is even more divided. As you look ad the provinces, you also see a difference. Amsterdam is a country on its own and the Randstad is also different. But the best place is Noord Brabant. 😊
@@emiel1976ep Remarkable, really, that there can be so many distinctions in a relatively small country. Makes the world go ‘round, I guess. Mind you, I do think the southern regions of the Netherlands are especially beautiful. 🌳🐄🌳🐑🌳
When you leave a bus, train or tram or Subway then they wait until the other part to Come out and people will get into when all the People that had left the bus, tram or tram and Subway at the supermarket they will wait for there otherwise others will shout at you 😂 to do to stay in line i liked your video by the way greatings keessie
Abouy marriage, my idea is that the Dutch take marriage more serious than most other countries. So we will take longer to make that commitment decission than most other natons.
@@carlovandenkieboom5571 Thank you, Carlo. You will see that many viewers weighed in on this aspect of Dutch life. I still find it somewhat surprising given how organized the Dutch are in virtually every other way. 😊
We don't wait in line, we're not English after all. But we don't like pushing in line. Now we can remember who's turn it is in what order, but the lazy Dutch like it when a number can be drawn ;)
No you don't need a line if you just remember who was there before you and who got there after you. And a normal Dutch person would also tell you when it's your turn. Quite often when a seller asks 'Who's next?', people would point out who's turn it is. Line-jumpers will risk an overdose of Dutch directness and some ugly faces from othr customers.
Without complaining we wouldn't have the infra we have now. :) but either complain about things that matter or the weather, don't become a "Karen". Also.... if you join the people at the butcher or marketstall there will be one person looking at you.... they are last in line before you usually 😂
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I think many will just say Karen and Kevin (or Ken) but a female variant I have heard being used is a "Gerda". I have no idea of a male version. A Dutch stereotype would be "Sjonnie (Johnny) en Anita" which were names for the Dutch equivalent of "trailer Park Trash" which was mainly used in the 90's and early 2000's and was highly influenced by the "Flodder" movies and the TV show with "de Tokkies"
@ Gerda is a good one. Seems like a reasonable equivalent to Karen. Still, I feel bad for all the actual Karens, Kevins, Kens and Gerdas out there who are perfectly reasonable people. 😊
Really ridiculous how well you wear that hat. Together with that "smiles by default" mouth. You make me and my resting grump face jealous. Take that for opinionated. As for not forming a line. You ask "Who's last?" when you get to the waiting group and watch that person like a hawk.
@@passais You are too funny. Thanks for the compliments, of course, but don’t think for a minute that I don’t have my grumpy, hatless moments. 😊 Thanks, too, for the tip about finding my way in this lineless life. Haha. You really did bring a smile (oops, I did it again) to my face with your comment, so thanks for that. 👍
Queueing is very british. The English are very inefficiënt and always solve this with a que. If i go to a congres in the Netherlands they will have a lot of staff on peak hours so everybody gets their coat back quickly. In London you will be forced to que for half an hour and they will find it perfecte acceptabele which isn't the case when somebody is stealing your time to save a few bucks...
@@brendanchappell I suppose, sure. But the Dutch are not shy about sharing their opinion. Americans, Brits and others are often more reserved about expressing their true feelings. At least, that is my experience. Thanks for your comment. 👍
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 If Americans were 'reserved about expressing their true feelings' social media would not have been the success it has been..... :D
@@BabzV That's the point. All cultures are 'opinionated', but have different ways of expressing it. Some do it purely with body language, others will do it indirectly and others behind closed doors. You just don't see it if you don't get other cultures.
If we don't complain we are sick. I have a friend from France and she always tells me when she is here that we work with our elbows instead of standing in line waiting for our turn. I don't know why we do it but it is a nice sport to see if you get away with it. Once i took my sister in law to the eiffel tower. There was a line so long that it took a 2 hour waiting time to get tickets. I sneaked in and had our tickets in 5 minutes.
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 yes, but I have no idea why we don't. Although I have to say that in my area, since covid people are better in it in the supermarket. No people anymore that try to cut the line.
Waiting in line? No we don't, but we do wait our turn. And when it is my turn it is MY turn, "line"-jumpers will get the Dutch directness when they try to go first.
But what if you are shy? It's ok if you are assertive but you know the saying: "de brutalen hebben de halve wereld". You also wait in line for the kassa. And we also need nummertjes bij de apotheek etc.
@@user-ch2iy9sv9z if your shy just make sure you are in front. or else you are out of luck.
I don't stand in line, true. But I do know perfectly well when it's my turn and if someone wants to skip the line when it;s my turn I will tell them. It's kind of a adult Memory game, lol.
😂😂😂 brilliant, adult memory game
@@justmandy6572 I like that. An adult memory game, indeed. I, too find that if I’m in a shop with a lot of customers, I’m making mental notes: lady in green sweater, couple with stroller, man with walking stick….so I know who’s next. 😊
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 It's all about speaking up, on markets that is. When you visit the butcher or cheese shop, usually people are very aware and will even say: hey, you're up. And indoors there usually also is a ticket holder. You just tear off your ticket and wait for the number to be called, though not all use this system.
@ I like the number system; it keeps things honest. But the markets are another matter. They keep me on my toes.
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Ha ! they keep everyone on their toes ! And it's usually the elderly who cheat too !!
The lines are on a first come first serve basis. There are no physical lines, but mental lines. Remember which number you are. When it's busy, always ask who is the last person, so you know you're after him/her. When someone comes in after you, you tell him/her that you're the last in line.
@@scottc8570 Thank you, Scott, for your comment and the expert tip. 😉
I am loving all your videos, Mike! My husband and I came to Amsterdam this past July. He was there to attend an academic conference and I was happy to explore on my own. I studied Dutch for 7 months before our trip, and it included forays into Belgium and Luxembourg. Our favorite was the 3 days we spent in Delft for the Delft Chamber Music Festival. As a former managing director of a chamber music fest in my area, the time in Delft was magical. Amsterdam was so much fun too. Kinderdijk windmills were much more impactful than we imagined they’d be. In short, we long to return to the Netherlands and envy you and the choices you made in life that we wish we had earlier.
Glad you enjoyed it...😊
@@kristlummi Thank you so much for your heartwarming message. I know exactly how you feel about the Netherlands. It possesses a certain intangible something that is, indeed, magical. As you know, I fell in love with this country so many years ago, and there isn’t a day that goes by that I am not grateful for my life here. Coming to this country was the greatest adventure of my life and the best thing I ever did. I am the happiest I have ever been. I wish the same happiness for you and your husband and sincerely hope the two of you will soon find your way back “home”. ❤️
I'm a Dutch Man living in AZ USA for over 30 years according to my wife,kids( American) telling me I'm cheap (frugal)and very direct guess old habits never die. Like your videos.
@@donaldvanberkum8666 Thanks so much, Donald. I appreciate the compliment. I guess you can take the Dutchman out of the Netherlands, but you can’t take the Dutch out of the man! 🇳🇱 🇺🇸
The only line we make is at the registers of the supermarket 😊 I had to laugh very hard about the "adult memory game" of the other commenter. Sometimes though, for instance when at the baker or butcher or something, people ask: who was last in? And then they keep an eagle eye on that person to know when it's their own turn. But: spot on Mike! 😊😂
@@sophiesmeenk1076 Thanks so much, Sophie. I also got a kick out of the “adult memory game” comment. I like the idea of turning it into a sport. 😊
From my personal experience it is not appreciated to go before your turn. We may not form a nice line, but the social custom is to remember the people who were already there, and also the people that came in after you. It takes a bit of skill but it should be clear to everyone present whose turn it is next (believe me, everyone is acutely aware!). I have personally had to learn this skill from a very young age as my mother would send me out to the butcher's where I learned the hard way.
If you do jump the line, don't be surprised if the person whose turn it is to step forward and put you in your place :)
Where this system completely falls apart is getting on the bus when you're commuting. Then it's every man for himself! No mr. nice guy.
@@TheHighlander71 Yes, you are right about boarding the buses (and trains). Every man for himself, indeed. It still surprises me, considering how organized everything else is in this remarkable country. 🤔
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Personally I see it as a lack of good manners and civilization.
Oh yeah, the ‘voordringen’ at a market stall or in a small shop: just claim your place! F.i. like my 5’9" mom, who once said: don’t pretend you managed to overlook me. ;-)
@@margreetanceaux3906 I love your mother! ❤️ I’m going to be brave like her the next time this happens. 😊
"The Dutch are opinionated and I'm sure they'll let me know in the comments" is so very true, made me laugh out loud 🤣
Frugality isn't necessarily being cheap, but more to get the highest quality and durability for the lowest price available. And we're proud of it.
And most of it is already said about waiting in line, but yes, in the days I grew up (mainly eighties) there was a number system ("nummertje trekken") available on the busier days, which seem to be less around nowadays. If there wasn't, I was taught to ask who is last in line to know when it was my turn. I still do exactly that to date. And I'll definitely let you politely, but firmly know if you're skipping the line.
@@AbeIJnst Thanks for your comment. I’m glad to give you a good laugh (the best medicine, they say). 😊 Maybe we can start a nationwide petition to bring back the “nummertje trekken” system. Life seemed so much easier in the eighties, eh? In the meantime, I am going to employ the practice of asking who is last in the line. So simple and so effective. 👍
The dutch may be frugal about every day costs and be prepared to look for every way to reduce them. But when it comes to donating money for people in need they are quite generous. Have you heard about 'Serious Request' and ´Franky and Coen´, the latter being two dutch men serving free french fries in the war-torn Donbas in Ukraine?
@@oldebarneveldt5326 It’s true: the Dutch are leaders in charitable contributions. In my video about why the Dutch are so happy, it’s one of the reasons I list as contributing to their happiness. I know about “Serious Request” but had not heard of “Franky and Coen”. That is really remarkable. Thanks for letting me know about that incredible initiative. The Netherlands never ceases to amaze me. 👍
Why wouldn't we love the sun. It's gratis 😅
@@andrekamsteeg4567 Touché, André! 😆
I wonder whether the guy in shorts he mentioned is a followers of Wim Hofman?
@@margreetdoodeman1441 Could very well be the case. I have seen a few teen boys wearing shorts in winter, looks like a competition to me 🤔
@gertstolk sometimes it is also a challenge that kids do to raise funds for charity. I see that in regional news.
@ Ah, the Iceman. Could well be. 🥶
In the past (when I was young / previous century), many shops had a ticket system (volgnummersysteem). When entering the shop you took a numbered ticket from the dispenser near the entrance. At the counter there was a small screen that indicated which number is next (IKEA still uses this but in a more digital format). Using this system there was no need to que or to form a line. Perhaps that habit stayed; now it is a kind of adult memory game. Sometimes a new person entering a shop asks around who was last so he/she knows when his/her turn is.
@@fredr6557 I like the numbering system. CoolBlue has something similar. The pharmacies, too, as another viewer noted. So civilized! 😊
Not being married doesn't imply universal free love or that no child knows its father growing up. It means that not all Dutch feel the need to have their long term, probably more monogamous and longlasting than a typical American marriage, relationship either blessed by the skyfather or registered by the state.
@@1aapmens Yep. My thoughts exactly. 👍
In the Netherlands it is good custom to scan the crowd and see who comes first, second, third. It is also good custom to ask if it is your turn and be flexible about it. A disabled person, elderly or child can get ahead for instance. This only works if they other persons have the same courtesy.
@@mennovroom5537 Good point. Thanks for mentioning it. Alas, common courtesy is not so common. 😊
Talking about the weather is a way of starting a conversation. You should not take this too seriously. And like others mention about not forming a line, we really do know when it’s our turn and will claim our place if someone tries to be first.
Many year’s ago we didn’t lunch at work but we went home to enjoy a warm lunch, what is our evening dinner right now.
People worked close to their jobs, children went home halfway schooldays. Everything was on a short distance.
And yes, this agenda is a very interested point. I would not know how to function without it. Though everyone is always welcome at any moment to step into my house or studio.
@@NL-001 Thanks so much for your comment. Interesting what you say about people working close to their jobs back in the day. The good ol’ days, indeed. In some ways, with remote working, maybe we are returning to our “roots”. 😊
Many times when it's busy somewhere people ask: Wie was de laatste? That solves everything.
@@reteipdevries Yes, from the comments, that seems to be the consensus. It’s a practical solution that I intend to implement. Thanks for the tip. 😊
The smoking ban was done under a false flag, protecting the employees of the bar. So the owners of bars who had no employees said this is not about us. It's a problem of bad legislation and politicians not daring to properly state their real goa with it.
People do wait their turn, but you have to claim it and be assertive, also to speed up things.
@@DenUitvreter Thanks for expanding on the smoking ban. In terms of waiting in line, it seems I’m going to have to develop quicker reflexes. 😉
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Yes, stand your ground. You make sure who is in front of you and you are seen by the shop keeper, when it's that person's turn you signal it is not your turn but that person was first, than they know you are probably next and as soon as that customer is almost done with, you claim your turn with a hand gesture.
People do wait their turn but not when it's unclear you are ready to order or just don't seem nearly as hurried as them.
Govt was simply not ready to tell the 'we decide that ourselves' crowd which certainly exist that they are going to be bullied in a healthier lifestyle in order to get very old and make health care both more expensive and profitable. So they tried to do it through pretending to protect a third party, the employee, which would be more legitimate.
@ Ah, that’s a good tip about signaling to the shopkeeper who is next, thereby making it known that I’m the one after. I’m going to give that a whirl the next time I’m at the market. Thanks for that. 👍
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 Or the 2nd one after, it's about showing you respect the order and you'll have their attention when you claim your turn. Make sure that you are seen before it's your turn is the most important.
We fail to make cueing too orderly and relaxed, having to stand up for ourselves possibly, we can never be sure, but it is there.
I once was just walking into a store with about 10 people waiting to be served. I did't even make it to the counter yet when she asked "Who's turn is it?" and I said "Ja, ik." with still having meters to go to join the the cluster waiting. All the heads turning with mad looks soon followed by the relief it was just a joke, tells all about the norms as well as the underlying tension of someone disrespectung our time and equality by trying to jump the cue and having to speak up.
@@DenUitvreter What a funny story. You’re incorrigible (onverbeterlijk)! 😂
Nice videos Mike. In response to your question: I find it a bit annoying the lack of queues, especially at the market. At the bakeries that is usually solved by asking: who was last in line? Asserting it is your turn, when someone takes a too early turn, usually leads to apologies.
@@renexener Thanks so much for your good words. I definitely need to fine-tune my technique when it comes to negotiating the lack of lines. I’m going to practice at the market on Saturday. 👍
Standing in line is a thing if you can defend the line by words. I once saw this grandma say to a very tall musculair biker gang member (hells angels) that he skipped the line. And she wasnt talking for herself, but for some student she did not know. The hells angels guy apologized because he knew he was skipping the line.
And thats generally how it works. If they skip the line, call them out and they back off straight away. If you think there is confussion, just say :"hee I am sorry, I think I was first." Thats ussually enough.
The “complaining” is also for our peace of mind. You get something of your chest instead of letting it fester….😊. Makes it better and you don’t have to think about it again. Plus it is our honesty. We say what we mean.
@@leilanacroese3240 That’s a good point, and it makes perfect sense to me. I really like the Dutch approach and am learning to be more like this myself. I’m a work in progress. 😊
Great video and true :)
@@RFGfotografie Thank you so much. 😊
Amazing how you manage to describe all these unappealing, negative (and very true) Dutch characteristics with a smile and in a positive way
@@psvensso Thank you. 😊 Makes me think of the lyrics of that wonderful song ‘Smile’ by none other than Charlie Chaplin:
Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile…
This is so interesting to me! Im wondering if you say anything, Mike, if someone cuts the line or if you let it go?
@@kristiina-f9h Haha…oh, I say something. It brings out the tiger 🐅 in me. 😂
I do'nt stand in line except at the "oliebollenkraam"😂
@@pensionadosontour Haha. I would be willing to wait all day in a line for oliebollen. Lekker! 😋
Ha Mike. Op de markt vraag ik altijd wie de laatste was. Dan kan ik die in de gaten houden..
@@oscardeklijne1 Bedankt voor je reactie, Oscar. 👍 You’re one of the good ones. 😊
On "marriage", there's little or no stigma for partners living together, in a sexual relationship, without being married. It's almost universal for couples to live together for a few years, and even have children together, before getting married,
@@bartman49 Yes, I have noticed this tendency among my Dutch friends. My partner and I were together for 15 years before we got married. We must be becoming Dutch. 😃
Yes, many, especially older people, take a pack of bread to work. I think that has to do with our eating habits: people eat a sandwich at noon. That + the fact that you often only have half an hour to have lunch at work, makes it normal to take your own lunch with you. As for forming a queue: We just don't have that habit.
@@minneman1562 Thank you for watching, and thanks for your comment. 😊
Hi Mike!
5:26 True, However; I have no opinion on anyone's opinion; everyone has a fundamental right to their opinion.
We will just try to make you see (with gentle persuasion) that our view on the matter is best.
@@maartentoors Hi Maarten. I love your comment. It’s a blend, I guess, of being tolerant and being opinionated. Beautiful. ❤️
at a market stall the vendors would usually work customers frrom right to left, so no need for a queu, line, it is the same as ordering in a bar, most customers would scan the other customers for where they stand in order in the group and yes sometimes you have to stand your ground to get served.
@@gekkegerrit933 Thanks, Gerrit. Unfortunately, at the market, I rarely see a right-to-left formation. It’s more of a free-for-all formation. 😂 But I’m learning to stand my ground. 👍
Hi there!
😂...Your video makes me even more proud to be Dutch!
Personally I recognize myself in all 10 stereotypes! You're right..I also have to mention that we Dutch have a lot of selfspot..
Most of all I'm proud of being Dutch..This tiny country that's hardly to find on the world map, was the first country in the world that legalized same sex marriage!..
I mean this who would have thought that this tiny country would mark a significant milestone in history...
@@Joseetje1982 Hi there. I’m so happy you watched my video. Thank you for your comment. You have every reason to be proud of the Netherlands. Tiny but mighty! ❤️🌈😊
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I'm also proud of the Dutch humor: sarcastic, blunt and edgy..One of the video's that went viral across the world is "America first, Netherlands second" (Arjen Lubach - De Avond show)..
@ Yes, I remember that video. Indeed, the Dutch have a special, refined and often subtle sense of humor. So many of my Dutch colleagues crack me up with their wry one-liners. A very witty bunch! 😊
No lines, that's true but everyone is expected to go in order of arrival, that's the social norm, skipping ahead is considered rude, could be an honest mistake, could be an selfish inconsiderate person. Depends on your personality/mood and the situation whether or not you call em out, in case of a dispute everyone there might get involved and give their two cents on who is in the right 😀. In very crowded shops when you enter and it unclear after whom it's your turn, you can ask who is last, and you just have to keep an eye on that one.
@@adpop750 I am learning that asking “who is last” is customary, something that most Dutch learned at an early age. It is certainly something that I will start doing. Thanks for your comment. 🙏
Haha Yup, us Dutchies are quite opinionated, you're going to hear our thoughts on something whether you like it or not! 😂
Ahh yes the line or lack thereof, you have to be a bit assertive and also pay attention to who came first.
So for example when being asked who's next I will say who was first and when it's my turn, this way everyone(the caissière and the customers) knows what's what.
But of course some people are just rude and try to skip the line, I that case I will definitely speak up. (it's a bit of a pet peeve of mine)
Mike you look extra relaxed today, that bath yesterday must have been heaven. 😊
Oh and I hope your husband is doing ok and his mom is hopefully feeling a bit better. 🙏🌷
@@BabzV I’m with you all the way when it comes to the fine art of negotiating the lack of lines. I’m still refining my technique.
I do feel more relaxed today…and refreshed. The bath helped, and I enjoyed a good night’s sleep, so I woke up with enthusiasm, excited about making this video.
Meanwhile, my husband looks more relaxed, too. His mother’s surgery was a success, and she is home recuperating. ❤️🩹 I spoke with her yesterday. She looked vibrant and full of life. She is a force! Must be all that sunshine and those hot peppers 🌶️ in Mexico. 🇲🇽 Thank you so much for asking. I told my husband, and he was touched by the outpouring of affection in the comments.
Enjoy your evening, Babs. Kisses to the kitties. 🐈⬛ 🐈
Ahh you see, it was the good news about your husbands' mom that made you look extra relaxed today I think. 😊
I'm very glad to hear she's doing better, and I believe that Mexicans are quite family oriented? So I'm sure having her family around her does her a lot of good. 😊
My little guy just came to lay on my lap and my sweet girl is already dreaming away in the bedroom.. 🐈⬛🐈⬛😴
After a long day their human isn't far behind. 😂😴😴
Anywhoooooo....have a wonderful evening Mike. 🌷
.
@ Thanks, Babs. I wish you a good evening as well. 💤 Mexico is indeed family oriented. It’s such a big family, too. So many brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews! Such a contrast to my own family, which I could count on one hand. 🖐️
Hey Mike goeiemorgen, I hear ya I have a small family myself, my dad and my brother and his kids.
Btw, look at your sub count, you're going up fast my friend. 😃
I personally like your channel because of you(of course, your personality) but also because I get to see my own country/culture through a different lens.
It's freezing over here in Limburg and it's foggy, it's kind of nice actually. 😊
I hope you have a great day Mike. 🌷
@ Goeiemorgen Babs. Groetjes uit mistig Haarlem. I’m so glad you like my channel. I am thrilled to see the subs increasing. 😊 I am pleased to spread the good word about the big wonders of this little country. ❤️ 🇳🇱
As a Dutchie, this was way to relatable!
@@iwk315 Haha…thanks. I appreciate your comment. 😊
1 When it comes to appointments, for me it's more that I don't want to keep the other person waiting. We take our appointments seriously. 2 Complaining, yes, but maybe it's more of a healthy outlet. And usually it's about the weather... how bad is your life if that's the worst thing to complain about ;-)
3 Letting people look inside has a long tradition. Just search for the word 'Pronkkamer'
4 , 5 and 6 Yes. 7 When there's no wind and it's not too cold, it can be wonderful to be outside. If you're already inside a lot (in the winter), a breath of fresh air is wonderful.
8 yes. 9 Not the best example I think, there are certainly others to be found.
10 has already been answered several times by others in the chat
@@NL2500 Thanks for your reply. 😊 Another example of Dutch rule-breaking would be that, during COVID, frequent (and illegal) protests occurred, and shops, museums and nightclubs opened despite regulations to stay shut. And, historically speaking, there was the Dutch Revolt. 🙌
I know that for foreigners it is strange to see colleagues bring lunch from home, let alone drink milk 😮 (for some reason it is seen as a kids drink? With cookies!!), but I like to add that it is also about healthyness. Buying a sandwich means more coldcuts/cheese or added condiments like mayonaise, butter etc.
If you order a sandwich (let us not start on junkfood like burrito's and such) you will eat much more, pay much more, and get all these extra's that you did not want in the first place.
Like your vlogs by the way, it is funny that you are being soooo carefull not to hurt our very sensitive Dutch hearts! And even then...some people find some things offensive... unbelievable.
(Other video: You have to like a kroket and you have to know the ingredients...🙄).
For me having the curtains open (a bit) is also about safety: I do not feel save in a street where alle curtains are closed! Looking outside when you hear some one scream or a metal crash sound (bike accudent?)...it is also about social control. Can be a good thing or a bad thing... I make it a good thing by watching out for myself and my street.
Would love to live in your street! Love Haarlem and you have a beautiful house with slide doors with 'glas-in-lood'.... 😍
Thank you so much for your encouraging words. They mean a lot. I do make an effort to be positive and to see the bright side of things, and - indeed - I do my best not to offend. And, still, as you have noted, people are offended or overly critical. In any case, I am heartened by your good words. I like what you say about the open curtains. I leave mine open, too, and definitely like to be able to look out at a moment’s notice. You make a very good point; part of it is about safety. Thank you for the compliment about my house. I am very happy with my little benedenwoning, and I like my quiet street and, of course, I am very much in love with Haarlem. ❤️
To me it seems it is often older people who jump the line. Keeping in mind that they are old and probably tired, most of the time I just let them because I find it not worth it. When younger people jump the line I will say I was there first. From the way they behave I usually know they know I am right. But 95% of the time everyone present takes the line into account, even though there is no actual line. It comes down to not hesitating when asked who is next and it is your turn, because people will take advantage otherwise.
@@vinkie5392 That’s an interesting observation. Maybe older people jump the line because they have less time to spare. In any case, it’s nice of you to let them. I often say, “life is one long lesson in letting go”. So, I suppose this may be another opportunity to breathe in and let go. 🧘♂️
Rule breaking is also a national sport, the moment the government makes a new rule, we find ways to break it.
Example, the speed camera is a Dutch invention which is used a lot, in the beginning cars going the other way signaled the other way with their lights that there was a speed camera active! In the village I lived there was such a traffic control and people of an apartment building hanged a sign with a warning to slow down! Later the radar controlled speed cameras were confronted with radar scanners, so the government did forbid those radar scanners, and so they took the radar controls up into TomTom maps, first only the stationary but later also the dynamic. Now it’s even on the radio where there are active radar controls, and if you pay an amount you have a life upgrade on all active radar controls and shows it on Google maps! (The standard radar controls are a free standard option now)
Amazing. The Dutch are not only rule breakers, they are mad geniuses! I love that these technologies exist thanks to the ingenuity of the Dutch! Thanks for your comment. 👍
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 If it can makes us spending less money, we are in! If it can avoid us sponsoring the government we are double in!
We indeed complain about everything! LOL mostly because it's an outlet for us. The word seek means to go in search of, try to discover , try to acquire. It requires an active, assertive approach to life. Even at the market place. However if they did skip the line, i would tell them HELL NO LOL The agenda is necessary because family/friendstime, worktime, healthtime and you time comes before anything else! Hence the agenda LOL and ofcourse to remember your appointments. One thing that is important to us, is we don't have time to waste with nonsence and get straight to the point! I love that by dutch people! And you are now one of us LOL very observant, straighforward, honest and kind. So welcome to the club Mike LOL
@@CarpeDiem-gi3yz Thanks so much. I appreciate the warm welcome, and I count my blessings to be considered one of the Dutch bunch. It’s a small but illustrious club, and I am proud to be an honorary member. 😊
Most things are already mentioned i see. I didnt read all but about the forme a line part. No line is a social aspect. I read a lot of comments about people jumping the line and we would put them in their place. Its true. But there is also a nice opposit too it. When the bussinesowner start speaking too someone but it isnt their turn. Most of the time people will say. No sorry, he/she was before me so help them first😜
@@gerwin319 I think it’s true that, for the most part, there is some sense of civility. I guess it’s the exceptions we remember most. 😊
Marriage is expensive, although not as expensive as a legal binding contract.
Thanks Joost. Good point. 👍
To avoid fights about who's turn it is, we invented the nummertjesautomaat. When you arrive, you take a ticket with a number on it. It's your turn when this number appears on a 'clock' on the wall.
It's nice to hear what things we Dutch are famous for! 😂
@@jeanettecardol6028 Thank you, Jeanette. I love that invention. 😃 The Dutch have invented so many amazing things: from the microscope and telescope to the submarine and WiFi/bluetooth/CDs/DVDs…the list goes on and on. ❤️ 🇳🇱
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 haringkaken, boekdrukkunst
How can you jump the line if there is no line ?
@@janvandoren8910 You got me there, Jan. 😊
Je bevindingen kloppen voor 100% , en betreft het niet vormen van een rij is omdat iedereen weet wanneer hij of zij aan de beurt is.
Voorkruipen wordt de kop ingedrukt zeker als ik mijn vrouw bij me heb .
Love your Chanel ❤
Thanks so much for your comment. What I need is someone like your wife to keep everyone in their place. 😊 Thanks again for your encouraging words.
I don’t stand in line but I surely observe and wait for the person who is last coming. Or I ask nice who is last. Or when I will be asked if I want to bye something on a stand and I know somebody arrived before me I will say so..
@@petervandervliet1411 Thank you, Peter, for your comment and for being a proper, polite Dutchman. 😃
My impression is that in the US if you are not married, you are considered to be single. In the Netherlands you are not single if you are in a serious relationship.
@@jannegeraedts9520 There certainly is/was a stigma in the U.S. associated with not being married. It seems that many Americans regard that with some degree of suspicion. That may be changing; I don’t know. But I definitely sense that there are nowhere near as many hang-ups over here….about a lot of things. 😊 🇳🇱
Hi Mike, you're a keen observer and you score a perfect ten out of ten. As a Dutchman I find #10 most annoying. I am always pleasantly surprised when visiting the US how well people form a line and newcomers politely ask if you are the end of the line. When driving in the US I am always amused by alway stop intersections, that is something Dutch drivers could never handle 😅
@@gertstolk Haha, yes, the four-way stop. 🛑 The antithesis to the roundabout. 😂 Thanks, as always, for watching, Gert.
I have fine-tuned the break-the-line. Why? Because my time is precious and if I don't do it, someone else might. Then more time is lost. But you have to do it sofisticated and swift. Like when, in the supermarket, they say register 2 is open: I am already there... ;-) I like your observations, keep them going. A thing about the Dutch is that they respect your opinion (as long as it is Western orientated (sorry). We are tolerant towards people we can relate to.
@@Klierland12 It sounds like you have mastered the fine art of linelessness. 😊 Thanks for your encouraging words; they mean a lot. I can’t really comment on the conditional quality of Dutch tolerance, but I suppose - like most people - they could be more comfortable with what is familiar. I do think people have a tendency to fear the unknown. Thanks for weighing in on this. 👍
Not standing in line... they just try and they expect more or less to be called out for that (brutally honest ;-) but when nobody reacts, they take their chance.
btw Mike, I really love your way of talking. Your message comes over very clear to me. I really wished more USA TH-camrs did the same. Most of them look like they are pushing to sell something.. and I dislike that.
@@dikkiedik53 Thank you so much for your comment. I appreciate your encouraging words. You made my day. 😊
On "not waiting in lines" it's not typical Dutch. Dutch people that do that are called 'brutaal' and 'asociaal'. And it forces the other ones to either accept it or be assertive. But personally I think it's better in for example the UK.
@@user-ch2iy9sv9z I confess that I am more accustomed to forming a line and waiting my turn. 😊
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 There are a lot of Dutch people that would love that 'rule'. The Dutch are not perfect at all and the so called 'anarchy-gene' is always at the cost of others. Especially for the introvert or shy people.
55 years old never had an agenda after high school
@@seesharp81321 Ah, so you’re one of the rule-breakers. 😊 There’s a rebel in every crowd. 😂 Thanks for your comment.
We close our curtains, don’t want people to see me and my wife making out in front of the fire! 😂🤣😂
@@joostprins3381 Hey, what happens in your living room stays in your living room! 😆
Not queuing would indeed surprise you because we are so organised. But we have also been a stubborn and not always law-abiding people for centuries. You have in fact guessed correctly that it relates to your quote in your previous point ‘Dat moeten we toch lekker zelf weten’. And also think of the song '15 miljoen mensen.' 15 miljoen mensen op dat hele kleine stukje aarde / Die schrijf je niet de wetten voor / Die laat je in hun waarde. But don't be mistaken, not queing doesn't mean we are rude people who don't care for others but themselves. So I endorse what I see others commenting that we do keep an eye on who's up. I also recognise the question: who was last? I am very sorry if your experience is different and you have experienced multiple instances of someone pushing forward. But that, also in the Netherlands, is not common and normal behaviour and in fact has nothing to do with queuing or not.
@@archangel0009 Thanks for weighing in on this. I appreciate the distinction you have made between not queuing and rudeness. I do think the occasional incidents that I have experienced are the exception and not the norm. You know I love it here. ❤️ Thanks, too, for providing those insightful song lyrics. They speak volumes. 😃
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I totally believe that you don't think Dutch people are simply rude, you testify to that in your blogs which are very thoughtful and well-articulated. Besides, there are always exceptions to the rule. Such is the case of the legendary Dutch ‘get there on time. I have a friend who always arrives half an hour late for an appointment by default. So I always take a book with me when I meet up with him 🙂
And can I also suggest a topic? The contrast between the Randstad and the countryside. Of course, you certainly have that contrast in the US. But also here. You sometimes see the frustration among people in the east, especially farmers. And I too have those prejudices. For example, I was in Friesland in a small town called Ferwerd in the middle of nowhere. There was absolutely nothing there by our suburban standards. And then in the etalgae of one of those picturesque houses I saw poetic texts and photos by the Dalai Lama and German artist Joseph Beuys. And I was surprised to find that there of all places. Turned out it was the studio of Louwrien Wijers. She once organised a big conference at the Stedelijk museum Amsterdam ‘Art Meets Science and Spirituality in a Changing Economy.’ Here she brought together artists, scientists, spiritual leaders and economists. Guests included the Dalai Lama, Robert Rauschenberg, John Cage, Ilya Prigogine, Lawrence Weiner, Stanislav Menshikov, Marina Abramovic en Fritjov Capra. In panels they would discuss art, science, spirituality and economics. The registration of the panels became a "mental sculpture," a five-part video artwork, one part for each day.
@ So true. There are always exceptions. The Canadian author and political philosopher once said, “Nothing is absolute, with the debatable exceptions of this statement and death”.
@ That’s a worthy topic. And what a great story you’ve shared, which challenges so many stereotypes. It reminds me of a video I watched recently about the smartest man on the planet, Christopher Langan (with an IQ between 195-210), who is a horse rancher in Missouri. The conference you speak of sounds extraordinary. How I would have loved to have been there. What a fantastic feat to bring together so many remarkable minds from the realms of art, science and spirituality in one place at one time. Fantastic! Thanks for sharing. ❤️
My personal (Dutch) view of lines is from the past, look at the military parades from the past. Lines are a feeling of control over you, a must do, everybody needs to be the same. In opposite no lines are more a feeling of freedom. Even if lines need to be formed they are chaotic.This for me relates also to the subject of conforming. I conform often as that is most efficient and was agreed as group consensus, but I value the diferences and values of the individual even more. Not sure this is true and I'm pretty sure a scientifc paper is around this,.
That’s a compelling theory. You certainly make a good case for being flexible, which is a worthy aim. Thanks for weighing in on the subject. I appreciate your perspective. 🙏
About no.2 Complaining about the weather is in our genes Mike, we can't help ourselfs.
About no.10 So true. Maybe thats where our directness comes from by confronting line jumpers.
Compare that to the neat queuing in the U.K.
Have a happy new year Mike.
@@Aad-wv3fq I hear you. I confess, it’s easy to complain about the weather here. Almost every day provides a perfect opportunity. 😉 I never thought about what you said re: no. 10. It makes perfect sense. It’s certainly an excellent opportunity to practice my directness, my inner-Dutchman. ❤️
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 But to be honoust, none of us want to live in the (cold) north, or longer than 3 weeks per year in the (warm/hot) south.
"dat moeten we toch lekker zelf weten", dat kan veel korter: durmazon
It is an expression from an old tv series: Het Schaap met de Vijf Poten (I never saw it bc I do not like watching telly) used by many then and so I learned it, meaning:
D'ur mag zoveel niet.
In a way we are rebellious, but we lack the courage to proceed I guess. Or it is bc we do not like real chaos. The Dutch are very much alike with Germans, but they do make revolution and maybe we learned, once you start there will be a follow up. And again. We had a war for 80 years, the Germans only 30 at the time.
@@margreetdoodeman1441 Durmazon. I like that. A very abbreviated way of expressing the sentiment. Perhaps the Dutch enjoy controlled chaos. Makes me think of the Haarlem branch of the Hell’s Angels (motorcycle gang) that I once saw sipping cappuccinos. 🏍️ ☕️
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 i see that, makes me laugh. Rather not meet them though. On the other hand we have this saying that the outside is tough, but the inside like a baby (klein hartje).
@@margreetdoodeman1441 Absolutely, you can’t always judge a book by it’s cover. 📕 📖
no waiting lines? No, well for some things yes we do have them, but in general no waiting line, but everybody knowes their turn (and other ones turn). Why no waiting lines? I guess, we - in general - don't like te be just a member of a group - read: army, read: sheep - we like our individuality. We have learned to think for ourselves, do things only whe we agree etc.
@@PaulStruijk Thanks for your comment, Paul. I find it especially interesting because I always thought that the Dutch were more comfortable as a member of a group, i.e. “steek je kop niet boven het maaiveld uit”. I got the impression that the Dutch prefer to “stay in their lane”, so to speak. I could be wrong, of course, and I certainly don’t want to generalize. In any case, I find it fascinating to observe people and cultures, and I appreciate you sharing your perspective. Thanks so much for watching my video. 😊
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 thank you! Maybe I have not found the deeper reason yet, but I am thinking and observing just like you: maybe the freedom to be part of a group is important. Waiting in a line is not a free choice when on airport etc, freedom to be a memberof a football club / supporter group .. Meaning I guess: as long as we are free we can be part of a group. Also to see clearly in a family , it seems to mee the importance of family in NL is not ij general as big as in Spain, Italy etc .. many people fnd their real family, their real group they belong too .. Or called 'something', we like to be seen as a person .. here is somewhere I believe the answer to the why people prefer to wait in a loose group of people in front of a market stall. I will keep searching and observing the Dutch and the Italians and the Americans etc. Thanks for your great video's.
@ Thanks again, Paul, for your observations and support. I appreciate your good words. You and me both…we’ll keep being keen observers of human nature. It’s fun and, in the end, I suppose it tells us something about ourselves. 😊
Spot on!
@@robtennapel78 Thanks, Rob. 👍
That open curten thing isn't in the south. That is in one part of the country where you live.
@@emiel1976ep Ah, good to know. There does seem to be a sharp divide between north and south. True of many countries. 😊
Yes it is a big divide. The south is way better.
It is even more divided. As you look ad the provinces, you also see a difference.
Amsterdam is a country on its own and the Randstad is also different.
But the best place is Noord Brabant. 😊
@@emiel1976ep Remarkable, really, that there can be so many distinctions in a relatively small country. Makes the world go ‘round, I guess. Mind you, I do think the southern regions of the Netherlands are especially beautiful. 🌳🐄🌳🐑🌳
@@emiel1976ep I have to object strongly. Limburg is better. 😆
When you leave a bus, train or tram or Subway then they wait until the other part to Come out and people will get into when all the People that had left the bus, tram or tram and Subway at the supermarket they will wait for there otherwise others will shout at you 😂 to do to stay in line i liked your video by the way greatings keessie
@@grazykeessie5200 Thanks, keessie, for your comment. I’m glad you liked the video. Stay tuned for more. 😊 📺
Yes, we close our curtains when we go to bed.. :)
@@hertzollner That makes perfect sense to me. 😊
Abouy marriage, my idea is that the Dutch take marriage more serious than most other countries. So we will take longer to make that commitment decission than most other natons.
@@DavidV328 Thank you, David. I think you may be on to something. Good comment. 👍
I don't kwow why we don't form lines. But It 's true, and I am not comfortable with it.
@@carlovandenkieboom5571 Thank you, Carlo. You will see that many viewers weighed in on this aspect of Dutch life. I still find it somewhat surprising given how organized the Dutch are in virtually every other way. 😊
We don't wait in line, we're not English after all. But we don't like pushing in line. Now we can remember who's turn it is in what order, but the lazy Dutch like it when a number can be drawn ;)
Thanks for watching, Bart, and thanks for your comment.
Complaining is our national hobby.
…and one of the keys to Dutch happiness according to recent research. 😊
Complaining is a national sport!
@@joostprins3381 "Wij zijn de kampioenen!" 🎶 ✌️
No you don't need a line if you just remember who was there before you and who got there after you. And a normal Dutch person would also tell you when it's your turn. Quite often when a seller asks 'Who's next?', people would point out who's turn it is. Line-jumpers will risk an overdose of Dutch directness and some ugly faces from othr customers.
@@TheJoaveck It’s at such times when Dutch directness is at its finest, for sure. 👍
Without complaining we wouldn't have the infra we have now. :) but either complain about things that matter or the weather, don't become a "Karen".
Also.... if you join the people at the butcher or marketstall there will be one person looking at you.... they are last in line before you usually 😂
@@mavadelo Ah, yes, the “Karens” and the “Kevins”. What do you call them in the Netherlands? My friend Karen once proclaimed, “I am not a Karen”. 😆
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 I think many will just say Karen and Kevin (or Ken) but a female variant I have heard being used is a "Gerda". I have no idea of a male version.
A Dutch stereotype would be "Sjonnie (Johnny) en Anita" which were names for the Dutch equivalent of "trailer Park Trash" which was mainly used in the 90's and early 2000's and was highly influenced by the "Flodder" movies and the TV show with "de Tokkies"
Ahh yes, the Sjonnie's en de Anita's. 😂
@ Gerda is a good one. Seems like a reasonable equivalent to Karen. Still, I feel bad for all the actual Karens, Kevins, Kens and Gerdas out there who are perfectly reasonable people. 😊
What Americans has in common to the Dutch .......they are very noisy while abroad
@@LucasDeMol-c5z Haha. Maybe it’s a measure of their enthusiasm for the place they’re visiting. 😃
Complaining and opinionated are almost the same thing. If you don’t have an opinion you can’t complain about something do you?
@@joostprins3381 There’s certainly a correlation there. Good point. 👍
Really ridiculous how well you wear that hat. Together with that "smiles by default" mouth. You make me and my resting grump face jealous. Take that for opinionated.
As for not forming a line. You ask "Who's last?" when you get to the waiting group and watch that person like a hawk.
@@passais You are too funny. Thanks for the compliments, of course, but don’t think for a minute that I don’t have my grumpy, hatless moments. 😊 Thanks, too, for the tip about finding my way in this lineless life. Haha. You really did bring a smile (oops, I did it again) to my face with your comment, so thanks for that. 👍
Queueing is very british. The English are very inefficiënt and always solve this with a que. If i go to a congres in the Netherlands they will have a lot of staff on peak hours so everybody gets their coat back quickly. In London you will be forced to que for half an hour and they will find it perfecte acceptabele which isn't the case when somebody is stealing your time to save a few bucks...
@@ArnoutVanderMolen-fr8gi Well, that is certainly one way of looking at it. 😊 I was counting on some strong opinions. 👍
All of it is true. Nr 10; I realy don't know wy people don't stand in line. To un disciplined I think.
@@EvelyneSpasojevickok Thank you, Evelyne. I appreciate your comment. 😊
All cultures are 'opinionated'....
@@brendanchappell I suppose, sure. But the Dutch are not shy about sharing their opinion. Americans, Brits and others are often more reserved about expressing their true feelings. At least, that is my experience. Thanks for your comment. 👍
I think all people can be opinionated yes, but not all express it like us Dutch do.
@@BetterTogether-UnIr1 If Americans were 'reserved about expressing their true feelings' social media would not have been the success it has been..... :D
@@BabzV That's the point. All cultures are 'opinionated', but have different ways of expressing it. Some do it purely with body language, others will do it indirectly and others behind closed doors. You just don't see it if you don't get other cultures.
@@brendanchappell You make a persuasive point. Social media certainly makes it easier for people to express themselves. Look at me! 😂
If we don't complain we are sick. I have a friend from France and she always tells me when she is here that we work with our elbows instead of standing in line waiting for our turn. I don't know why we do it but it is a nice sport to see if you get away with it.
Once i took my sister in law to the eiffel tower. There was a line so long that it took a 2 hour waiting time to get tickets. I sneaked in and had our tickets in 5 minutes.
@@Bruintjebeer6 Complaining seems to contribute to happiness according to some studies. I guess the lack of lines is something I can complain about. 😊
@BetterTogether-UnIr1 yes, but I have no idea why we don't. Although I have to say that in my area, since covid people are better in it in the supermarket. No people anymore that try to cut the line.
@@Bruintjebeer6 Covid changed many things…that’s certainly true.