Impression #6. Doe normaal

There’s one concept in Belgium, embodied in one phrase, which we don’t have any close alternative to in Ukraine.

To me it represents an important part of the culture code here, and it’s certainly one of the reasons why I like being here. The magic words are

It can be a positive thing or a negative thing.

In its negative meaning, it means something like “fit in!” or “don’t stand out!”, and be quite merciless towards the people who have difficulty to adapt.

However, the positive application of this phrase is something that I deeply align with at the level of my core values.

It opposes excess drama, unnecessary pathos, show-off, provocative, and hysterical attitude - and instead grounds you in the real world.

Doe normaal to me does not mean “stop your creativity, stop your emotions, and sit tight”. To me it means - don’t be a drama queen, have discipline, have restraint, and don’t blow things out of proportion.