Living life as a digital nomad is glorified and put on a pedestal. People spend so much time envisioning the life of digital nomads. Allow me to ease your mind about the hardest part of being an expat.
My family has slowed down the digital nomad life lifestyle and call our travel style slowmad life. We spend a very long time in each location.
Whenever new people hear about our life the first thing out of their mouth is an excuse about why they can’t live like us.
First of all, you don’t owe me an explanation about why you don’t live abroad. I have no vested interest in convincing everyone to leave America. But, for those that need a little tough love, I’ve got some retorts to your objections.
Pick Your Hard
Staying the same is the hardest thing in the world. Yet, people don’t realize it.
Being broke is hard. Earning a lot of money is hard. Being unhappy is hard. Reaching your goals is hard. Being what everyone expects you to be is hard. Choosing yourself over other people’s opinions is hard.
Becoming an expat is filled with new experiences and difficult things. But, even the biggest challenges pale in comparison to home towns gradually eroding into impoverished, uneducated, unhealthy, skeletons of their former glory.
There is no going back to some magic prosperity, safety, and happiness.
Find Your Happiness Abroad
I know it seems a little bit crazy to run away to foreign countries for happiness. Between safety, cost of living, and healthcare systems the flip side is truly greener.
In this article I will cover nineteen of the most common reasons that people say are stopping them from moving for good.
These reasons are defense mechanisms you wear as armor to excuse your lack of active choice making. Instead of making an active decision you are buckling down, trying to push through, and making the best of it. By not making a change your are making a choice.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
Being an expat involves navigating a whirlwind of emotions. Virtually everyone will try and talk you out of a drastic choice like fleeing the country. Instead of eliciting advice from those that are not ready to change, you should instead talk to people who have done what you want to do.
We went from idea to living abroad in one month. It was a conscious choice to not allow anyone an opportunity to give their opinion about our choice.
1. Leaving Your Comfort Zone
Leaving your home country to live abroad means stepping outside your comfort zone. The toughest part of the experience is often dealing with the unknown. From understanding local customs to adapting to a new way of life, everything feels different.
Everyday tasks like shopping or using public transport can feel daunting. This discomfort can lead to stress. Embracing change and maintaining a positive mindset becomes important. Finding fellow expats who share similar feelings can help ease the transition. They can offer advice and support, making challenges feel more manageable.
2. Dealing With Homesickness
Homesickness can hit hard when you are far from your familiar environment. Missing family, friends, and the daily comforts of your own country is common. The hardest part of being an expat comes when you long for these connections, especially during special occasions or holidays.
Building a new home base in your host country with things that remind you of your own culture can also offer comfort. Creating routines and exploring local neighborhoods can distract from the longing for home. Always give yourself something new and exciting to look forward to will prevent dwelling on what is happening back home.
3. Forming Deep Connections
Forming deep connections in a new country takes time and effort. Building relationships with local friends is difficult due to language barriers and cultural differences. Socializing with fellow expats can be easier, as they share your experience and struggles. These friendships can form a support network that makes the whole experience more enjoyable.
Remember, local friends can provide insights into the expat culture, enriching your social life. Being open and proactive in joining clubs or activities can lead to meaningful relationships. At the end of the day, patience and persistence are key in overcoming these challenges. New friendships gradually bloom, adding warmth to your expat journey.
The Realities Of A New Culture
In the early days of each country I have felt myself thinking about how we would do things back home or in the previous country. Try to stop yourself from thinking the new country is doing things wrong. Instead, embrace the learning and discover new ways of doing things.
4. Culture Shock And Adjusting To A New Culture
Moving to a different country often brings a mix of excitement and unease known as culture shock. You might feel unfamiliar or out of place, especially if the local culture differs greatly from what you’re used to. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or taking public transport can become challenging.
It’s normal to experience feelings of anxiety or confusion at first. Exploring your new environment and participating in local events can help ease these feelings. Being open-minded and willing to learn are key to making your new country feel like home.
5. Language Barriers And Effective Communication
Language barriers can make communication difficult, especially if the local language is a foreign language to you. Misunderstandings can occur, leading to frustrations in daily life. Learning the local language improves your experience and opens up opportunities to connect with local people.
Even basic language skills can enhance effective communication and make interactions more enjoyable. Embrace language learning as part of your journey. Using language apps or enrolling in classes can significantly help.
6. Navigating Different Social Norms
Social norms might differ in your new country. Things like greeting customs, personal space, and dining etiquette might not be what you’re used to in Western countries or your homeland. What is considered polite in your own culture may be rude in another.
Observing locals and asking questions are helpful ways to learn. Adjusting to these social norms helps you avoid awkward situations and better integrate into your new environment. Adapting shows respect and a willingness to become part of the community. This is often the hardest part of being an expat, but it becomes easier with time.
Practical Challenges Of Expat Life
In your home country you know that the driver’s license agency is called a DMV. It’s not called that in the new country. Every single thing you grew up and gradually learned is different in your new home.
You won’t know the name of the store to print photos or buy a TV. The store could be a person’s name or a foreign word for Entertainment or some made up word that everyone knows is similar to Best Buy. All the things you don’t know yet will feel overwhelming, but don’t let the unknown be an obstacle.
7. Adapting To A Different Healthcare System
When you move to a new home, understanding the healthcare system can be one of the hardest parts of being an expat. Each country has its own procedures, coverage, and costs. Do some research before moving to learn about local hospitals, clinics, and insurance options.
Some places require upfront payments for medical services, while others have public systems. It’s important to know the language requirements and find out if you need translators. Set aside emergency funds for unexpected health care expenses.
Ask other expats for recommendations about doctors or clinics. Many expats form online communities where they share experiences.
8. Dealing With Financial Realities
Money matters can become a big challenge when settling into expat life. Different countries have varying costs of living, taxes, and financial regulations. Prepare a budget that considers housing, food, and daily expenses in your new location.
You probably need to open a local bank account or deal with currency exchanges. Exchange rates can affect your spending, so keep an eye on fluctuations. Tax regulations might also differ, and understanding them early on can save you hassles later.
It’s a good idea to consult with a financial advisor. They can offer advice on banking, taxes, and retirement planning. Planning your finances well helps you adjust smoothly and enjoy your new adventure.
9. Handling Time Differences
Time differences can strain relationships with family and friends. You might feel disconnected from loved ones when your waking hours don’t match theirs. Plan regular times to call or video chat during hours that work for everyone.
Sometimes, work responsibilities are impacted by time differences, especially if you have job duties linking you to teams in different time zones. Use ** time management tools** to organize meetings or deadlines effectively.
Setting boundaries with your time helps avoid burnout. Make the most of your local time to build personal connections in your new community. Balancing time differences enhances both your career and personal life experiences as an expat.
New Life, New Challenges
Starting life in a new country can be both exciting and daunting. Your goal should not be to stay the same in your new location. I try to become the version of myself that lives in that country, not the American version of Veronica. As of right now, I am the Portugal version of Veronica.
10. Custody Challenges
Having joint custody of children can be a major obstacle for those considering expat life. It is absolutely possible to navigate international custody arrangements with proper planning. First, involve the other parent in the decision-making process and you might find a destination that offers a high quality of life for both of you and your children.
Everyone assumes that the other parent will fight an international arrangement, but in fact it might just be the change they are looking for. Always approach the topic under the mindset that both parents can win and be happier with the right arrangement.
11. Adapting To An Entirely Different Climate
An entirely different climate can be a significant challenge. If you’re used to a mild climate, adjusting to extremes like scorching summers or freezing winters may feel overwhelming. You’ll need to learn how to dress appropriately, manage your home environment, and handle weather-related activities. Understanding local customs for dealing with weather can be helpful. This adaptation can be an opportunity to explore outdoor activities unique to your new environment, making the most of your fresh start.
12. Work Cultures & Remote Entrepreneurship
Work cultures vary widely from country to country. You might find differences in communication styles, office hierarchy, work-life balance, and expectations. It’s important to observe and learn the norms of your new workplace.
Asking questions and showing willingness to adapt can earn respect from colleagues. Building relationships with coworkers can provide insights into the work culture. Embracing these differences may lead to improved job satisfaction and a better quality of life in your new country.
Owning a business can also be a hindrance to expat life. As you transition your company to international potential, consider hiring remote employees. Your new reality as a nomadic entrepreneur can explode growth and innovation for your company.
The Social Media Reality Check
When living abroad, social media often paints a picture that isn’t entirely true. It’s easy to get trapped in the allure of perfect photos and stories shared online.
13. The Social Media Trap
Scrolling through feeds, it appears that expat life equals endless adventures and smiles. Pictures of exotic foods, stunning landscapes, and happy get-togethers can create a glamorous view. While these moments are real, they’re just a highlight reel of the whole experience.
The hardest part of being an expat can be when this filtered reality makes you feel like your life should look the same. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction when your day-to-day doesn’t match the online glitz. Remember, what you see is often staged, not the full story.
14. Family Disagreements
Going nomadic or becoming an expat as a family might look like a cohesive decision, but there are constant moving parts. One minute your partner is on board with your plans to love abroad and the next minute they are arguing about ever little aspect.
Communication and constant compromise are the key to a happy expat life. No place is perfect and it is easy to blame other family members when things get hard. Discuss the benefits and drawbacks before, during, and after each living situation.
Motivations and needs change when you become different versions of yourself as global citizens. Never hold it against someone if they didn’t want a certain thing previously, but now they do. You will all realize the lines you previously drew in the sand disappear or become deeper as time goes on.
Unexpected Hurdles
As they say, ‘expect the unexpected.’ There are always obstacles you want to scream about as you move abroad. No amount of planning, researching, or preparation can cover every situation.
15. Navigating Bureaucracy And Legal Systems
Moving to a foreign country often involves a lot of paperwork. It’s a frustrating process with forms, permits, and approvals at every turn. You might have to deal with language barriers, making it even more complicated. Each host country has its own rules and regulations. Sometimes they follow their own rules and other times they don’t, making every step a true mystery.
Often countries require visas, residency permits, criminal background checks, financial documentation, and health insurance. It is my opinion that you should do your best and then turn in documentation for feedback instead of procrastinating until you think everything is perfect. Turning things in gives you an opportunity to find out about new requirements or sometimes be approved without additional effort.
16. Finding Suitable Housing
Securing a comfortable place to live in a new city is crucial. Finding suitable housing can be one of the hardest parts of being an expat. In some areas, housing can be scarce, leading to high prices or limited choices. Safety, proximity to work, and community are key factors to consider.
Online platforms can be great for preliminary searches, but physical visits ensure you choose the best option. Talking to other expats can provide valuable insights into the local market. Be prepared to negotiate lease terms, and always check for any hidden costs. A well-chosen home can significantly ease your transition.
17. What to Do About Your Mortgage
Owning a property can be a major obstacle for those considering expat life. However, there are options for managing your mortgage while abroad. We personally use our American home as a rental property.
Most people I talk to are nervous about becoming a landlord. Think of every step of the expat process as a temporary plan. You are just testing out the idea of your house being a rental while you go test out living in a new country.
Everything is just a short term plan that is totally changeable. If you sell your house that becomes a bit more permanent and hard to go back on. Keep the house, grow your equity, and use the rental income as a stream of income for visa applications.
Settling Into A New World
Living as an expat can bring a mix of excitement and challenges. I remember one friend telling me they could never live abroad because they don’t have Lucky Charms. It is true that access to certain American products is tricky while living abroad.
Deciding to embrace the new normal is a choice that not everyone is willing to make.
18. Adjusting To Different Foods And Local Tastes
Adapting to the local cuisine is a major part of the expat experience. You may find yourself trying dishes you’ve never tasted before. Each meal can be an adventure for your taste buds.
Local markets often offer fresh produce and ingredients you’ve never seen at home. It’s exciting to explore these new flavors and cooking styles. Learning to cook traditional dishes can be both fun and rewarding. Embrace this opportunity to grow your culinary skills.
Sometimes, food from home isn’t readily available. You might crave familiar dishes. This is common and can be challenging at first. With time, you’ll discover new favorites that satisfy those cravings. Trying local food helps you connect with the culture, making it less of a challenge and more of an enjoyable journey.
19. The Constant Need For Adaptability
As an expat, adaptability is a critical skill. Every day might bring new situations. Local customs, language, and social norms may be different.
Being open-minded helps you overcome these differences. Participating in local events or community activities can make the transition smoother. It’s a chance to meet new friends and learn about cultural practices.
Having a flexible attitude helps you handle unexpected challenges. Whether it’s paperwork, housing, or navigating a new city, staying adaptable is key. You may find that this flexibility is the hardest part of being an expat. Learning to adjust keeps you resilient in a new world.
Hardest Part of Being an Expat
All of these excuses are just that, excuses. You are not obligated to keep living in America just because you started there.
Yes, change is hard. But, from my perspective, not changing is harder.
