Table of Contents
Introduction
Moving abroad is one of the most life-changing decisions you can make. I’ve now lived in both Singapore (as a student) and Morocco (as a Diplomat), and they have both been incredible experiences that have completely shifted how I see the world and myself. If you are about to be an expat, move abroad then I’m about to share a few things I wish I knew before moving abroad.
If you’re thinking about moving abroad do it! Don’t wait on anybody or anyone to move abroad. And certainly do not let anyone limit you from living abroad. It will change you in more ways than you can imagine. Which in my opinion is an amazing thing.
While both countries offered growth, challenge, beauty, and adventure, there are a few things I wish I’d known before taking the leap. If you are considering moving abroad, then you have come to the right place. Here are 5 things I wish I knew before moving abroad. By the end of this post you will have a clear list of things to know before moving abroad.
Read: 8 Amazing Things To Know Before Studying Abroad.
5 Moving Abroad Tips
There are a number of things to know before moving abroad and things I wish I knew before moving abroad. Here are a few that I have noted on after moving a few times now around the world.
1. Your New Country Becomes Home Sooner Than You Expect
Before I moved, I had this grand plan: I’d travel everywhere. For my first dip post I had been told that I would be going to Egypt. I had plans to travel Saudi Arabia, Jordan and UAE lol. Then it changed to Morocco and I was even considering Algeria and other neighbouring countries. However, I then moved here and realised that this plan I has wasnt going to happen.
Don’t get me wrong I did travel to many places in Morocco. So far I have done Tangier, Chefchaouen, Rabat etc. in Morocco. And then while in Singapore I was able to pretty much do the whole of South East Asia from Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan (I wasn’t blogging when I travelled to these countries) and more.
But I didn’t expect to crave routine so quickly. For someone like me that loves spending time at home as a home body and not to mention with a busy schedule at work, I needed my quite time of solitude. I love my cozy spaces, local cafes, and quiet nights in. Where I don’t feel pressured to constantly be “on the go” creating a sense of home in your new environment is just as important.
2. Time Goes by Fast, Too Fast
Time really does go quickly. It actually feels like it was just yesterday that I was getting ready for my move to Morocco. Sorting out my property, my graduation and getting my stuff removed from my home. And then with Singapore, I was sorting out my British passport so I could move to Singapore. At first, it feels like you have all the time in the world. But the months fly by so quickly. One day you’re figuring out your new SIM card, sorting out visas etc. and the next you’re planning your goodbye dinner.
My advise, use your time wisely. Book that spontaneous trip while you’re abroad. Say yes to the invite. I was actually told to accept every invite for the first 6 months of my arrival. I was busy! Seize the moments when you move abroad, go everywhere if you can because it’s about to be an experience of a lifetime for you.
3. Your Relationships Back Home Will Change
If I listed all the things people have said about me following my dreams you will understand why I keep only a few close to me.
One thing no one tells you? People back home will keep living their lives, things will happen and sometimes, that means you’ll grow apart. Some of your peers will question why you want to move abroad? They may even not understand why you do what you are doing. But that never means you should slow down for them. You have to follow your dreams. Don’t ever allow someones limits to minimize your dreams.
It can be painful, but it’s normal. The key is to stay intentional about the relationships that truly matter. Not everyone will remain close, and that’s okay.
4. Culture Shock Isn’t Always Immediate
It doesn’t always hit on day one. Sometimes culture shock sneaks up months later or even a year. I recall several awkward local interaction in both Singapore and Morocco. Especially with the language barriers in Morocco. Or just remembering now the little things the cultural norms that stood out for me while living abroad as a Black British Nigerian woman.
Looking back now It’s part of the adjustment, so don’t be hard on yourself. Give it time and grace. And always remain respectful to wherever you are.
5. You’ll Grow in Ways You Didn’t Expect
Living abroad pushes you out of your comfort zone constantly, and that’s where the magic happens. You will gain new prospectives, your limited views will be widened because you will be exposed for good reason. You’ll learn new skills, meet people from completely different backgrounds, and find strength in situations you once feared. You may come back changed… but that’s exactly the point.
Final Views on Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving Abroad
If you’re considering moving abroad, then you have already made the step to set yourself apart from your peers and I am so excited for you. I want you to know this: it’s not going to be completely easy, but it’s going to be so worth it.
Moving abroad? Lived abroad? Or are you planning to move? Let me know in the comments and let’s use the section to help and support one another in the community as I imagine there are a number of expat lessons that we can all learn from one another. And if you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask below or DM me via Instagram. I am always happy to help.
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As always speak soon,
MBV xx
