“Believe you can, and you’re halfway there” meet Iðunn Ásgeirsdóttir. She packed 2 suitcases and her beloved Amora and moved to Monda. She has plenty of wise advice for her younger self too. Read her story.
Why Spain?
I came here from Iceland in search of a higher education, warmer weather and an overall better quality of life than I could have back home.
After graduation, I got offered a teaching job at my old University, and therefore decided to stay here in Spain for a few more years.
Now I do Freelance work as a Graphic Designer, as well as I’m taking my Masters in Motion Graphics, so I guess I won’t be leaving anytime soon.
And where are you now?
I am based up in the Marbella mountains, in a town called Monda. It’s a lovely yet small pueblo, with friendly people, calm atmosphere, and pretty views.
Although it’s a tiny village, we have some good restaurants, and an active community, so it always feels lively here.
However, I dislike how much colder it gets up here in the winter time, but that’s a small price to pay for happiness.
What was the biggest challenge for your move?
The biggest challenge I faced moving here, was getting into the Spanish laid-back mañana and siesta rhythm. I come from a very fast-paced country, which is more advanced technologically then Spain, so it was a bit of a “Back to 1995” moment for me. But they have since improved and I also adapted to their ways, and have started to appreciate the Spanish structure more, although I still disagree with many of their ways as their systems are made more difficult then they have to be.
Do you have any advice for Women thinking about making the move?
I kind of dove into moving here, head first, not looking back for a second, which worked well for me. The advise I can give to other women wanting to make the move, is that you need to follow your heart. If you are not happy where you are, only you can create and pursue your own happiness, and make your dreams come true. It’s never to late. The Spanish coast was the perfect place for me to start a new life.
Has the move affected your business?
I keep myself busy throughout my days with Freelance work, and by attending classes and working on school assignments. But I also enjoy my daily exercise where I run through the hills of Monda, greeting all the lovely elderly people that pass my way.
I truly enjoy cooking, and creating a cosy atmosphere, while watching a movie con una copa de vino.
I also love exploring new places, travelling in good company or by my self, but best of all, I spend most of my time with my spoiled cat Amora, taking her on walks, dates, and training her each day.
If you could achieve one spectacular thing in just one day what would it be?
Although I’m still far from that goal, I’d love to master the Spanish language as it would open up so many doors for me, both personally and professionally.
Something you are grateful for?
I’m happy with the skills I have achieved within my chosen profession, although I’d love to learn even more in order to continue my growth.
I am grateful for my health, my home, my friends, family and cat companion, and by how far I’ve come since moving here. It was a complete career turn, rapid maturity move as well as it was helpful for my mind and soul.
Who would be at your special dinner party?
I would invite my mother, who sadly passed away recently far too young. You never know what can happen in life, so enjoy all the small moments with the people you love the most.
What’s your secret weapon or accomplishment?
I think my biggest accomplishment is the way I worked hard on transforming from who I was into who I wanted to become, someone who myself, my friends and my family could be proud of. I refuse to be defeated by the harshness of the world and I continue to try and overcome it with humour and positivity.
Do you have a favourite saying?
There are two sayings that I live by. The first is “In a world you can be anything – be kind” and the second “Believe you can, and you’re halfway there”.
One thing you had to bring to Spain and could never give away?
I moved here with only two suitcases with just the essentials. I guess the only thing I brought with me and will never give up, is my language and the way of Icelandic thinking.
Do you have a favourite film?
My favourite movie is The Greatest Showman, as it stirs up all my emotions in one sitting. I love when things are well made and each part of that movie is gold. It was also the last movie I watched with my mother, which makes it all the more special to me.
Something you would tell your younger self?
Believe in yourself, worry less, keep you head high and don’t let others break you.
Understand your values and learn what gives your life meaning.
Follow your dreams and take control because you are good enough, and with hard work, your dreams will come true.
Know the important things in life, and embrace them.
Be confident and kind, because that will become your superpower.
Thank you Iðunn Ásgeirsdóttir where can we find out more?
My website: www.idunndesign.com
Insta @idunn.design
Facebook @idunndesign
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