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Why Everyone Should Live Abroad For A While

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“Home is where the heart is” the old adage goes. while this is certainly true, the journey/experience of going abroad and trying to build a life somewhere else, even if just temporary, is a revelation in itself, bringing with it a whole world of experiences. For some, it is even an eye-opener on how they would like to structure the next chapter of their lives.

It will make you independent 

Moving to a new country, you learn to build up your courage, learning to be independent and face all your fears on your own takes a lot of heart! Before you know it, conquering your fears and getting to know the unfamiliar and coming on top like a champ is just another Tuesday 😉

It will make you trust your instincts

A habitual planner? Living abroad and getting into situations where very little is in your control, you’ll learn to leave caution to the wind, be less stressed, learn to be spontaneous, and learn to think on your feet.

It will propel your confidence through the roof

You’ll see that you can indeed handle anything! You’ll no longer hide behind your comfort of familiar things. Have a problem? You’ll know you’re resourceful enough to figure it out. Don’t see a path? You’ll forge one for yourself. You will learn to keep your cool and tackle things with confidence even if the odds seem stacked against you

You’ll start collecting memories instead of things

I’m a huge believer in the whole- experiences are more important than material things” philosophy. No one can take away your experiences and how they grow you. That’s in you forever and will benefit you for the rest of your life. It’ll mean less clutter, less stuff to haul around when you’re on the run from the popo. It’ll even give you the opportunity to connect with more people

You’ll become more grateful

Rebuilding your life from the bottom up in a new place, you will learn to appreciate and be thankful for every gesture of help, kindness, and goodwill that carries you through your difficult journey. You’ll even catch yourself feeling grateful for the little things in life and you’ll be supportive of anyone who can use a hand/is having a difficult day.

Beyond your horizons

Moving away from everything you know can be unnerving when it comes to the intensity of new experiences. Think of everything you learned as you grew up, from what you consider the social norm, or how you greet a stranger or even what you consider as regular food. Moving abroad plonks you into a completely different culture; effectively, you’re starting all over again. Love yourself a light and simple breakfast every morning? Maybe you’ll come to appreciate a loaded omelette with extra cheese and bacon with country potatoes on the side 🙂

And you’ll realize just how awesome you’ve become.

“Home is where the heart is” the old adage goes. while this is certainly true, the journey/experience of going abroad and trying to build a life somewhere else, even if just temporary, is a revelation in itself, bringing with it a whole world of experiences. For some, it is even an eye-opener on how they would like to structure the next chapter of their lives.

It will make you independent 

Moving to a new country, you learn to build up your courage, learning to be independent and face all your fears on your own takes a lot of heart! Before you know it, conquering your fears and getting to know the unfamiliar and coming on top like a champ is just another Tuesday 😉

It will make you trust your instincts

A habitual planner? Living abroad and getting into situations where very little is in your control, you’ll learn to leave caution to the wind, be less stressed, learn to be spontaneous, and learn to think on your feet.

It will propel your confidence through the roof

You’ll see that you can indeed handle anything! You’ll no longer hide behind your comfort of familiar things. Have a problem? You’ll know you’re resourceful enough to figure it out. Don’t see a path? You’ll forge one for yourself. You will learn to keep your cool and tackle things with confidence even if the odds seem stacked against you

Has this post interested you in taking up a new adventure? If some of you have lived abroad (or really far away from home) how has this experience shaped you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Me On Everything

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20 COMMENTS

  • Nathalia

    I traveled abroad for over a year and it was one of the the most life-changing and transformative experiences I’ve had. I loved it so much I became a digital nomad and am on the road for most of the year. It’s a luxury to be able to live abroad or be location independent, but if it is within your capabilities there is no reason not to do it.

    Nathalia | NathaliaFit – Fitness & Wellness Blog
    http://www.nathaliafit.com

  • Genevieve Malarkey

    As someone who lived abroad in college, I agree 100% with your insight! It absolutely changed my life, and has inspired me ever since. I blog about my own experiences abroad in France, and how it changed my life: http://www.cafegenevieve.com

  • Lauren

    I wholeheartedly agree!! I am so glad I lived abroad a few years ago, it was a game changer!

  • Chetna

    I desperately want to experience this once..staying in a joint family, hoping for time to come soon

  • Lydia

    I have traveled to Mexico, Argentina, Spain, Canada, and Syria! And it has given me the benefits you have described.
    I also like to be a homebody though. I am 50/50 about whether I will travel out of country again.

  • Livi

    I moved abroad 3 years ago and it supported to be just for few months but I felt in love with the place and now I think that was one of my the best decision 😊❤️

  • Josie D.

    I completely agree with the confidence thing. I spent three months in Ghana and when I came back to the states, I felt like I could conquer anything! I applied for a position I thought I never would get and I sailed through the interviews and got it. Traveling surely does something to ya. Thanks for sharing xxx

  • Nishtha

    Great post! Living in US for the last 17 years away from family! Has its ups and downs, miss many things from back home. But then you make your own circle, include traditions as part of your life and combine the best of both the places.

  • Heather

    We travel together as a family and I hope this continues until we can’t anymore. I would love if both my children travel and have the opportunity to live abroad. The experience would be amazing.

  • Maria

    Beautiful article. Living abroad is a life-changing experience. You need courage and willingness to adapt to be able to live abroad.

  • Puja Kumari

    I have never went abroad. But I really enjoyed your post. Thanks for sharing.

  • Karletta Marie

    As a traveler I very much agree with all that you are saying here. I also believe that travel has deepened my understanding of other cultures and society norms. It’s helped me develop more empathy, more love and compassion. My mind has been opened wide. I’ve seen humankind are AMAZING and not at all like mainstream media shows. I embrace and learn from our differences, while being fascinated by how similar we are.

  • idara Joy

    I had the best time traveling abroad while in college and undergrad. One of the best experiences of my life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this.

  • Jennifer Gainer

    While we have traveled a lot too many locations a broad we have not lived more than a month or so in one location, so only temporary with our permeant residence in the states. We love the memories and experience that travel has brought us and you are right about the confidence and instincts they do come with the it. I can not wait to start traveling again, Great post!

  • Monica Tatomir

    We moved to London two years ago when my husband started a master’s programme and it’s been a life-changer. I completely agree with all your insights!

  • Ngozi

    This reads just about right! It will certainly help with independence.

  • Supal

    YES to all of this! I lived in Syria (1.5 years) and the UK (6 years) and have learned so much about myself. I’d also add that I learned what to prioritize in life. The little things don’t really get to me.

  • Tracy @ Cleland Clan

    I only lived abroad for three months, but it was an amazing experience. I high,y recommend it for anyone.

  • DeeFitz

    Your words are inspiring, Navina! What a joy it has been to watch you in your own living abroad experience! I love who you are and who you are becoming 🙂

  • Victoria

    Such a beautiful truth! I only studied abroad for two weeks but the perspective I gained is incredible. Looking forward to your next Lifestyle Blog Entry!

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