Embracing the Expat Life: The Three Essential Values for Success Abroad
Welcome to the vibrant and often unpredictable world of living abroad! As an expat, I’ve come to realise that certain values are indispensable for not just surviving but truly thriving in a new country. Today, I want to share the three core values — Flexibility, Resilience, and Open-mindedness — that have shaped my journey and how they can transform yours.
Flexibility: Adapting to Ever-Changing Circumstances
When I first moved abroad, I quickly learned that my ability to adapt would make or break my experience. Flexibility meant more than adjusting to different weather or food; it was about embracing a whole new way of life. I remember the challenge of setting up a new home in a place where everything from the housing market to the bureaucracy was foreign to me. By staying flexible, I was able to turn these challenges into adventures, finding new favourite spots and routines that felt like discoveries rather than compromises.
Tip for Aspiring Expats: Start small. Try changing your routines before you move. This could be as simple as taking a different route during your morning jog or trying out a new restaurant from a different cuisine each week.
Resilience: Building Your Emotional and Mental Strength
Resilience has been my anchor in the storm of change. It’s not just about bouncing back from setbacks — it’s about growing from them. One of the lowest points in my expat life was a two-week period when I had the flu hard! I was in bed all day, no energy, no appetite, pains everywhere, and the only thing I wanted, was for my mum to make me pancakes. I felt profoundly homesick. Instead of letting it overwhelm me, well actually I did for a second, but I called my parents everyday, and I got help from my lovely house mates to shop groceries for me, and even cook me a meal or two. Not only did I feel better, but it also strengthened our friendships!
Tip for Aspiring Expats: Keep a journal. Documenting your feelings and experiences helps you process and reflect. When you’re feeling down, look back at how far you’ve come and what you’ve already overcome.
Open-mindedness: Embracing New Perspectives and Opportunities
Being open-minded has allowed me to truly immerse myself in the local culture and learn from it. This was vividly illustrated when I was invited to participate in my uni’s event called Winter Jazz. A band was assembled within our class, that would travel around to some primary schools, giving an educational concert about jazz. I was nervous about not knowing enough to answer the children's questions. However, by keeping an open mind, I was not only able to enjoy a wonderful social and musical experience but also gained insights into the local school systems and customs that I would have missed otherwise.
Tip for Aspiring Expats: Say yes more often than no. Whether it’s a local event, a new hobby, or just a different way of doing things, give it a try. Each new experience is a step towards deeper understanding and integration.
Conclusion: Living the Values
Living abroad is more than a change of scenery; it’s a transformational journey that tests and reveals character. By embodying flexibility, resilience, and open-mindedness, you can navigate the complexities of expat life and turn potential obstacles into opportunities for growth and enrichment.
Whether you’re contemplating a move or already settling into a new country, remember that these values are your compass. They’ll guide you through the ups and downs, enrich your experiences, and help you build a fulfilling life abroad.
Remember, every expat’s journey is unique, but the successful ones often share these core values. Embrace them, and watch how they turn your expat experience into an adventure of a lifetime.