Learn to Feel at Home Anywhere in the World

When transitioning to a new culture, we often neglect to plan for our personal and social needs. Instead, we focus on getting our belongings packed, seeing friends and relatives as often as possible before we leave, disconnecting the phone, electricity….and then we wonder why we’re so lonely and can’t figure out what to do with ourselves once we move!

If you’re in the process of moving between two very different cities, and especially if changing countries, here are a few tips to make the transition easier –

Make a list of all the activities you like doing – this can include hobbies, organizations – anything that enriches your life currently.

Network for contacts – reach out to friends and family and ask them for any contacts they have in the place you’re moving to – both social, and anything related to those activities you love doing.

Contact those contacts! – don’t be shy – email or call everyone on that list you made from networking and try to set up appointments for after you move, and get involved with parallel organizations.

Plan for relationship changes – if you’re married, one of you may have given up work and friends and family to accompany the other. The trailing spouse may have a harder time adapting which can cause tension in your marriage. If you’re single, be prepared for an entirely different dating culture as you try to meet someone.

Learn the language – if you’re moving someplace where they speak a different language, take lessons, and practice. In order to truly adapt, and have your needs communicated and understood, you need to learn the local language, even if you think languages are not your strong point – just try it.

Discover your new city – figure out the parts you like, what areas are safe and unsafe, where the tourists go, and where the locals go. It’s ok to be a tourist! Go take one of those double-decker bus tours, it’s a great way to learn about all the big spots, and the tour guide is probably a local, so you can ask questions, and maybe end up with a new friend.

Watch and learn at the office – if you are the Expatriate, when you head off to work, make sure to spend some time observing important behaviors and learn about who is most respected and find out why. You will hopefully end up with some good friends here who can suggest resources you need along the way.

Take time to relax! – Moving is stressful, so is the feeling of starting your life all over. Take time for yourself – whether, for you, that’s meditation, yoga, walking, spa pampering, or a mini-vacation, allow yourself to indulge!