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Why is it that some people find living abroad to be an exciting adventure while others struggle so much more with the various challenges?
It might feel confusing or unfair, but a lot of it comes down to habits and the mindset you adopt. The good news is that you can take on these same routines of expats who are thriving and happy and experience the joy of being somewhere new, too.
Here are seven important things that all happy expats do!
Prioritize Your Health and Wellbeing
Expats live in a constant state of changing and adapting – at least for the first year or two. Being far from your family and friends and the systems you’re accustomed to can be tough.
Taking care of your health amidst all this change and unfamiliar territory is difficult but should never be ignored. Your health is your most valuable asset and the key to a happy and fulfilling life abroad. Make sure you invest in expat health insurance and give daily attention to exercise, nutrition, and mental wellness.
Learn the Local Language
One of the most daunting parts of moving overseas is having to learn a completely new language. Everything from making a phone call to the doctor to ordering a burger at a restaurant becomes harder when you’re not fluent in the language, and this can really dampen your experience.
Learning the local language is a crucial aspect of being able to really thrive in your new country. If possible, start practicing before you move so you have the basics down. Use an app or take professional lessons. Once you arrive at your destination, practice as often as possible by engaging with the locals and talking to people in their native tongue.
Act Like a Tourist
Day-to-day activities like going to work, the gym, grocery shopping, etc. can make your living-abroad experience feel like it’s… nothing special. It’s so easy to slip straight into your usual patterns and routines and miss out on the joy of a new place.
It’s up to you to change this. Everything around you will be different from what you’re used to, so make an effort to go out and experience it all. Walk around neighborhoods, explore new grocery stores, and pick up different items than you normally would. Visit parks and research the top ten tourist spots in your new country – then promise to visit them all.
Humans were never built to be alone. One of the most important things you can do to make the most of your time abroad is to establish some kind of community.
You don’t need to pressure yourself to build lifelong friendships from the very first day. In fact, it’s better to take things step by step. Invite your neighbors over or strike up a conversation with someone at the grocery store. Keep your eyes and heart open to chances to meet new people – by joining a gym, a club, or even attending networking events. Over time, good friends will find you, and you’ll start feeling more at home with a support system to lean on.
Try the Local Food
One thing that never fails to bring people together is food. It’s our common ground and a love shared across cultures, languages, and lands.
No matter where in the world you’re moving to, you’ll want to experience the local cuisine. Instead of floating to chain restaurants you’re familiar with, ask the locals about the best spots to eat and where you can taste authentic dishes. Visit local markets instead of grocery stores and sample any street food you come across. Learn to cook the local favorites and fall in love with new spices and flavors you haven’t experienced before.
Make Yourself at Home
Unless you’re planning on shipping all your furniture abroad (which we don’t necessarily recommend), it’s a good idea to bring some of your prized possessions with you overseas.
Some of your favorite things, such as a beloved blanket, a candle that smells comforting, some framed photographs, or a sentimental trinket. Material possessions are never the most important thing, but opening up your bags and finding a piece of home can bring a sense of comfort and support that you might not otherwise find. Making your new home feel “homey” is sometimes all it takes to help you settle down in an unfamiliar space.
Say Yes
Finally, say “yes” to absolutely everything. Everything! Whether it’s an invitation to a dinner, a business networking event, an opportunity to join a pilates class – everything.
Opening yourself up to new opportunities will make the entire expat experience feel fuller and more satisfying, so don’t miss out on anything fun. By doing so, you’ll meet new people, see and experience new things, and build an exciting life for yourself with plenty to look forward to and no time to waste missing home.
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