Kristina recently moved to Rotterdam and found herself navigating the challenges of settling into a new city. She’ll be sharing her experiences of discovering After5, how it helped her build meaningful connections, and the importance of stepping out of her comfort zone.
A strong advocate for female friendships, Kristina believes in the power of women supporting one another and how these connections can uplift and empower us to achieve more in life.
Here is her interview:
Why did you join After5?
I moved to Rotterdam, and as with any new city, it can feel overwhelming especially when you don’t know many people or the area. I was immediately intrigued by the concept of connecting with inspiring people while stepping out of my comfort zone and decided to attend an event. Embracing the unknown, although intimidating, often is the best way to discover your community. My first After5 was the Wine & Snacks concept, and it turned out to be a wonderful experience. The chosen location was perfect. I met some wonderful women. We spent the entire evening getting to know each other and sharing different stories about our lifes. What I loved most was how open and welcoming everyone was, ready to embrace the people in front of them. By the end of the night, I left feeling recharged and genuinely delighted.
My Female friendship plays an essential role in my life. They bring laughter, comfort, and understanding. The joy of sharing simple and playful moments. Beyond that, true female friendships help us see our true selves, even during tough times. They provide the mirror needed to face ourselves, offering both solace and honesty when we need it most.’
Why do you think it is important to step out of your comfort zone?
It challenges you to rethink yourself, your thoughts, and your way of living. Once you push past the fear of the unknown, you invite real growth. This leads to new connections, improves your life, and helps you become a happier, more fulfilled version of yourself.
- Do not let your ego take over and judge yourself too harshly.
- You can always return to your comfort zone, but don’t stay there too long.
- Start with small steps, slowly expand your boundaries.
- Celebrate every win, no matter how small.
- It's all about finding balance between growth and self-compassion.
What is your perfect day?
For me it would begin with a grounding experience to connect with myself and the present. This would be followed by a beautiful walk, to a chill brunch paired with a great cup of coffee—very important. I love meaningful conversations, from deep, thought-provoking discussions to the silliest one! To end, I’d watch the sunset someplace cosy, listening to music and surrendering to the serenity of the night.