MOVING ABROAD

An Exciting Journey with Unexpected Challenges

Moving abroad can be an exciting journey of self-discovery and growth, but it also comes with challenges—identity shifts, disrupted routines, and changed relationships—so embracing curiosity, building connections, and practicing self-compassion are key to thriving in a new country.

The Benefits of Moving Abroad

The good and bad of moving abroad and how to thrive
Research shows that moving abroad helps develop a good sense of self (Adam et al., 2018) and can increase creativity (Tadmor et al., 2018).

There is also evidence indicating that the length of time spent in a country is actually quite significant in building self-concept, as opposed to moving across several countries for short periods.

Identity and Belonging: Who Am I in This New Place?

Although moving abroad may feel exciting and like a dream come true at first, it can also impact our sense of self, and we may find ourselves facing challenges we never anticipated.

The first challenge is about who we are, our place in the world, our identity.
 Moving abroad can be a wonderful experience in which we reinvent ourselves and are thrilled by meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Relationships and Distance: How Bonds with Loved Ones Change

A third challenge is the change in relationships, especially with family back home.
Like routine, relationships with our loved ones inevitably become different; they are reshaped, which can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection.

How to Make the Most of Moving Abroad

How to thrive when moving abroad? Here are some tips:

• Remember that you are writing a new story of who you are in a new place. This is not easy, so cut yourself some slack!
• Don’t forget to keep in touch with your loved ones back home!
• Explore the new place with curiosity and try to connect with it. Identify spots where you enjoy spending time—perhaps places that feel “just right,” where you can enjoy reading or drinking coffee.
• Try to build a support network. Look for local groups or communities with shared interests.
• Last but not least: Don’t forget to be compassionate towards yourself during this challenging process. You’ve never been in this exact place at this moment in life before, so give yourself permission to experience your emotions.

Finding Stability in a New Home

Moving abroad is a journey of transformation, filled with excitement but also challenges. To regain a sense of stability and peace, start by creating small rituals that bring comfort—perhaps enjoying a morning coffee by the window as you take in the beauty of your surroundings.

Embrace the new environment by finding familiar spots that make you feel at home, whether it’s a cozy café, a quiet park, or a local bookstore. Establish routines that ground you, like morning walks or weekly meetups with new friends. Staying connected with loved ones back home while building a support network in your new country will also help you feel more anchored.

Above all, be patient with yourself. Adjusting takes time, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. With curiosity, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore, you will slowly turn your new place into a home—one cup of coffee at a time. ☕🌿