This is me and my journey
Hiya! My name is Fia (short for Nina-Sofie), and I’m a 23-year-old creative soul and entrepreneur, currently in the process of moving abroad for the second time in my life.
What inspired me to leave behind familiar Norway and embrace the unknown? It was a lifelong dream to live in the UK, mixed with a hunger for new adventures! Ever since I was young, I’ve loved watching British crime series with my mam and nan. There’s just something about the scenery, culture, language, and humor that has always drawn me in.
Three years ago, during my master’s program, I finally got the chance to go on exchange to the UK. With some family in Wales, I decided to settle in Cardiff.
But let me tell you, the preparation and move were hectic and chaotic. I thought the university would handle most of the paperwork, but spoiler alert: they didn’t. I ended up having to do most of it myself. And with COVID-19 still in full swing in 2021, there were even more restrictions, tests, and paperwork to navigate. By the time I finally arrived in Cardiff and settled into my flat, I had a complete emotional breakdown. The months of stress and overwhelm — both mental and physical — hit me like a wrecking ball. I felt isolated, confused, exhausted, and terrified, yet somehow excited all at once. (Read more about how I dealt with this breakdown here.)
Despite the rough start, those months turned into some of the best of my life. I experienced the most significant personal growth I’ve ever had. The resilience I developed from managing on my own in a foreign country was invaluable. I learned things about myself I never knew before, gained a new network, and made friends for life! So it wasn’t hard to decide that after finishing my degree back in Norway, I’d return to Cardiff with a one-way ticket in hand.
But let me be real — those valuable experiences didn’t come without hardships. There were plenty! Being far away from family is never easy. Even with frequent calls and FaceTimes, it’s not the same as sitting down in the same room. Not being fully understood because no one speaks your native language, or the frustration of English not quite expressing what you feel. And don’t get me started on the grocery stores — none of my favourite foods were available! I even had a mini-breakdown when I realized one of the family TV shows we watched together wasn’t available outside Norway. (Pro tip: a VPN fixes this, but homesickness can hit hard in the moment!)
How has my mindset shaped my expat journey, and how can it shape yours?
This time, I have more time to prepare, and that has been essential for my mental health and well-being. As a future expat, shifting your mindset from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset is vital! If you’ve already made the decision to move abroad, you’re probably on the right track mindset-wise. But it’s crucial to keep nurturing that mindset throughout the journey. Your mindset will shape your entire experience abroad!
This realization is one of the reasons I created VoyageurSpire! When I first moved abroad — and even as I’m preparing for this move — I found little advice or information about the expat process and life. With VoyageurSpire, I want to share my experiences to make your journey smoother and better. I’ll be sharing my wins, challenges, tips, and strategies to help you thrive abroad, just like I’ve had to figure out myself.
What can you expect from me?
Authentic stories, advice, and tips to help you thrive in your expat life. If you sign up for my newsletter, you’ll get even more in-depth insights, detailed advice, and exclusive access to guides and checklists! Plus, you’ll have the support of someone going through the same moving-abroad stress as you. (You can sign up at the bottom of the page.)
I’d love to hear from you! Share your journey with me or reach out with any questions. Your expat dream is worth it — let’s take this journey together.