Living Abroad

Any major decision inevitably evokes an innate fear of the unknown, and moving countries is most certainly one of the things that sit high up in those ranks. Relocating your ‘home’, domestically or abroad, is an all-encompassing experience that will shift your preconceived idea of reality.

Moving abroad stimulates specific parts of your brain that are accustomed to and would otherwise be running on autopilot mode when you’re at home.

These areas of your brain reach a heightened state, allowing you to become more aware as you absorb and adapt to your new environment. 

Here’s what we cover in this guide on living abroad:

• Moving Abroad: My Experience

• Concept of Home

• Relationships

• Challenges

• Everyday Similarities

• Appreciation for Home

• Tips for Moving Abroad

• Things to Know About Living Abroad

Living abroad is not only a journey into new terrain, culture, and language; it is a journey within, to the depths of your consciousness and the realms of ‘reality’.

Moving abroad was quickly the best decision I ever made. After five years of living in Barcelona, Spain, and after a rollercoaster of emotional turmoil and countless ups and downs, I don’t regret anything I’ve faced.

I’ve learned so much more here than I could have ever conceived possible. If you’re considering living abroad, I’d like to share a handful of concepts to help guide your voyage into the ‘unknown’.

Home isn’t necessarily home anymore

This fundamental concept is initially hard to understand and wrap your head around.

It took me a long time to realise that my original ‘home’ would never be quite the same again.

Your concept of home convulsively splits into two different worlds.

Your mind and heart become exquisitely torn between the place where you came from and your newfound home.

Moving abroad means there will be more than one city where you know how and why things work. And it also shows that there will be more than one place that you’ll miss.

Whether it’s the friends, the food, the smells, the language, the nightlife, or even the goddamn pay rates (thanks, Australia), you’re guaranteed to have your heart residing in two places. 

Your relationships will inevitably change

This was one of the most challenging changes for me personally.

Back in Melbourne, I had a tight-knit circle of close friends who were honestly like family. These people knew me inside and out and had seen not only the best but the worst of me.

I wasn’t willing to let go of everything, and I feared that moving overseas would diminish those connections I had once held so close to my heart.

Initially, it was a challenge to maintain those friendships whilst attempting to balance finding a new job, learning a new language, and living in a country where I couldn’t even understand what was happening around me.

Fortunately, thanks to modern-day technology, it is a lot easier to keep in touch, and I’m grateful that we live in an era where it’s possible to stay in contact with the ones we love.

Moving abroad is a subtle reminder that all people and events continuously evolve and are in constant motion. Some friendships will remain the same, and others will change for better or worse. And that, right there, is the nature of our universe.

When I returned to Australia for a month, I realised that it doesn’t matter how much time or distance is wedged between your friendships because if your connection is genuine, it will remain the same, no matter what life throws at you.

Living abroad is not as easy as it looks

Ignore the countless movies and books that paint the process as easy. I’m here to tell you that it’s not. Moving abroad is filled with challenges, from bank accounts and visas to job hunting and finding a suitable apartment. You’ll learn to negotiate and navigate your way through the not-so-pretty times.

Most of the time, things don’t work out the way you want, and other times, they work out even better than you had thought possible. That’s why it’s always worth the adventure because whether you’re having a blast or a bitter meltdown, you learn and grow from the experiences you face.

The tough times you encounter overseas help you become aware of how you deal with things and any negative, recurring patterns that may be dominating your decision-making.

When I first arrived in Spain, I spent almost every day balling my eyes out with overwhelming anxiety and stress. Here, I began to comprehend that I was the only one who could consciously alter those unwanted thought patterns.

Suffering is the greatest catalyst for your evolution, and living abroad can help you transform those outdated habits that no longer serve you.

It’s a small world

The world seems like a big place, especially during those arduous times when a flight is too expensive or too far away to just pop back home for a quick visit.

Once you move abroad, you become aware of just how similar things are all over the world. You observe everyday people go about their lives as they did back home.

Of course, major cultural differences and language barriers come into play, but beneath the surface of day-to-day life, you gain the insight that we’re all human.

I remember meeting people that reminded me uncannily of specific people back home and thinking to myself, god dammit, if this person knew they had a doppelganger on the other side of the globe, they’d flip a nut.

Eventually, I became accustomed to seeing familiar faces and personalities that were almost parallel to others I’d met back in Australia. I realised it is a small world where you can make a space for yourself anywhere. The possibilities are endless!

You’ll appreciate where you came from

Living abroad projects the question of what home really means to you. You become entranced with overwhelming gratitude for where you come from. Once I moved to Barcelona and began exploring the ancient landscape and rich history, I realised how much of Australia I had taken for granted.

Moving overseas gives you a deep appreciation and connection to what’s around you. You also get the opportunity to encounter people from all different walks of life whilst learning about their culture, diverse beliefs, and upbringing.

When I began to make friends with people from countries like Africa and South America, it was bought to my attention just how lucky I was to grow up in a country with access to clean water, medical facilities, and safe streets.

My first-world millennial problems were automatically thrown out the window when I stepped back and listened, and the conversation sparked a genuine sense of appreciation within.

Tips for Moving Abroad

So, with all that being said, moving abroad is one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make. Here are a few quick tips to help you out if you’re thinking of moving abroad:

#1: Dedicate your focus, energy and time, then set up a plan

Research and concoct extensive lists of requirements for both before and after the move and set yourself achievable intentions. Setting up goals will prevent unwanted stress and direct yourself towards the best possible outcome. Begin to delegate those tasks, allowing time for unprecedented events.

#2: Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Moving abroad is not an easy thing to do, especially alone. Utilise your time and confide in family, friends, and even work colleagues for their support. 

#3: Acknowledge how you feel

You must recognise the impact of making a big move on you. Leaving behind your family, friends and routine is sad, so take the time to properly say goodbye to your friends and family before you depart.

If you’re feeling lonely overseas, consider the big picture and the significant growth you face. Think about the positive; don’t dwell on the negative.

#4: Focus on the present moment, not the past or the future

Unfortunately, it’s far too easy for your ego to distract you with extravagant scenarios. Take a deep breath, well, not just one deep breath… Practice breathing in and out for 4 seconds, close your eyes, and focus on the oxygen entering your body. Doing this lets you slow down and pour your focus into the now.

If you’re interested in Studying Abroad, check out my comprehensive post here.

Things to Know About Living Abroad

Living abroad is an enriching, all-encompassing experience, but a few challenges can come up along the way. Here are some things to know about living abroad:

1. Culture shock: You’ll undoubtedly have to adjust to a new way of life, and it can take some time. Whether you’re feeling homesick, like an outsider, or having difficulty understanding a new culture, taking your time through the process is ok.

2. Language barriers: Depending on where you live abroad, communication can be challenging, even just speaking with locals or performing everyday tasks. That’s why learning basic vocabulary or a language course can make a big difference.

3. Finances: Living abroad can be expensive depending on where you’re located and what you’re doing for work. Getting familiar with the cost of living in your new location is essential.

4. Legal and administrative procedures: Moving to a new country involves a lot of legal work, including dealing with work permits, visas, residence permits, bank accounts, health insurance, etc.

5. Homesickness: Don’t forget to keep in touch with loved ones through phone calls, video chats, and social media. Living abroad can be challenging, so communicate your needs to friends and family members.

6. Adaptability: Living overseas calls for flexibility and adaptability. Try to keep an open mind and say yes to new experiences. Who knows what’s waiting for you around the corner?

7. Building a social network: Building a social network in a new country can take time, effort and patience. Joining clubs, taking classes, or volunteering can be great ways to meet new people and make friends.

FAQS

What is living abroad?

Living abroad is when you move to a country for a fixed or undefined period. The purpose of living abroad is to experience a new culture and live authentically like a local.

Is it worth living abroad?

Moving abroad opens up your mind to a new way of living. You’ll experience a new culture, language, traditions and ways of doing things. Ultimately, it’s a catalyst for personal growth.

Does living abroad change you?

Living abroad changes you for the better. It opens your eyes and expands your worldview. You gain a new understanding of cultures, you taste new cuisine and you make friends with people from all around the world.

What are the disadvantages of living abroad?

You’ll face many challenges when living abroad, whether it’s the language barrier, culture shock or the feeling of homesickness. Dealing with paperwork and bureaucracy can also be frustrating, especially if you don’t have legal help.

While it can be challenging, living abroad is also a rewarding experience. With proper research, planning and a positive mindset, you can turn your time abroad into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’ve got any questions on money-saving tips, how you can make home abroad feel like home, how to choose a country that’s suited to you, or anything else, please feel free to leave me a comment down below, and I’ll get back to you!

This experience has been a major catalyst for change in my life; if you’re considering doing the same, I urge you to act today.