When people meet for the first time, it is customary to exchange names and shake hands. Then the conversation often moves on to the reason for meeting or some small talk. Usually I stick to a brief introduction of myself with just my first name and a handshake, but on this occasion I would like to share a bit more about myself.

My name is Pieter Gelderman.

I have introduced myself countless times, in different situations to all kinds of people. Over the years I have become quite good at this. Depending on the context and my mood, I sometimes share some more personal details within the first few minutes.

My passion for writing

One thing I sometimes share when getting to know someone better is that I have a degree in graphic design. At one time I had a website where I displayed my work, but I realized that my true passion actually lies in writing. Although I am not particularly good at building websites, I have always been strong at coming up with innovative concepts and presenting them to clients. Times have changed, however, and these days I focus on sharing my words on a website rather than my designs.

Currently, I have more experience telling my own story than graphic design.

 
Writing offers me the space to explore and express ideas in a way that I could never quite achieve with visual design. It has become a means for me to share not only my creativity, but also my personal journey and insights with the world.

My journey of self-discovery

The next step in getting to know me is to know that twice in my life I took different forms of education. The first is now irrelevant, but the second is much more interesting. Several years ago, I began a journey of self-discovery and recovery, especially in my struggle with psychotic sensitivity. Although at the time I did not complete the training I was pursuing, that experience gave me invaluable insights.

It was a period of reflection in which I learned how complex, but also how resilient, the human mind can be. That journey of recovery showed me that life is not always linear and that it is okay to stumble sometimes, as long as you keep getting up. I want to share these lessons with you through my blog, in the hope that my experiences can inspire others who may be going through similar challenges.

My story is one of growth, loss, and ultimately finding new ways to express myself and connect with others. This blog is the result of that journey, a place where I want to share my thoughts, experiences and insights, and hopefully mean something to those who end up here. I hope that my experiences can inspire others who may be going through similar challenges.