A life Rich in Experiences
Although not strictly financial in nature, the process of moving countries is an incredibly enriching experience. The skills and experiences gained from moving internationally and living abroad have lifelong benefits. Benefits that will continue to impact both your personal and professional life.
The experience invariably changes the way we view life and the short amount of time we get to spend on this diverse, interesting, and beautiful planet.
10 Skills and experiences gained from moving abroad
1. Your Patience and communication skills will improve
Regardless of where you move to, your new country will have different views and norms. Things that used to be “polite” may now be very “rude” and scenarios that were considered “rude” may now be completely acceptable. It can be frustrating to deal with in the beginning, but over time, we adapt. You will learn to express yourself in an acceptable manner. You will experience multiple scenarios that require patience both with yourself and the scenario you are dealing with. There will also be some funny communication issues.
2. It broadens your Horizons
As old and tired as this expression is, it still rings true. You may learn that you love a new traditional dish or pick up a new hobby that was never available to try before. There will be new sights and new firsts to experience. You will also gain a deeper appreciation for things at home that were taken for granted.
3. Meeting new people and lifelong friends
As you adapt to your new environment you will meet individuals from all walks of life, making lifelong friends in the process. A native friend in your new country can show you the ins and outs, and a fellow foreigner from any country will have shared experiences of adapting to your new country. You will be exposed to different ways of thinking and different points of view. In the end, wherever you go in the world, people are still people. All trying to make their way in life.
4. A self-confidence and self-esteem boost
Constant problem-solving. Finding a new job, a new place to live, potentially learning to drive again (on the opposite side of the road) learning to embrace the new work culture. Successfully navigating all the challenges increases self-esteem and self-confidence.
5. International work experience
Work experience gained from working internationally can be a significant career boost. New skills can be added to your resume/curriculum vitae. The increased networking opportunities can lead to future career opportunities.
6. A fresh start
Starting over with a blank canvas is invigorating and motivating. You can form new habits or break old ones. Moving countries can take the process of “New Year’s” resolutions to an entirely different level.
7. Closer family bonds
This holds true if you move alone or as a family. If you move alone, you will appreciate the limited time spent with family in a whole new way. If you moved as a family, the shared experience of starting over and building a new life automatically creates multiple bonding opportunities.
8. Travel opportunities
It’s a different country. Different nature, architecture, weather, and seasons. Different festivals, celebrations, languages, and cuisine. Even a walk around the new neighborhood can be an experience.
9. New languages
It’s an amazing achievement to learn a new language. Being immersed in a new language creates a situation that forces you to learn. The skills learned will add to your curriculum vitae/resume and open new doors both personally and professionally.
10. Learning to go with the flow
Moving abroad is a major undertaking. There will be problems, headaches, and hurdles to overcome. Overcoming all the issues creates a deeper sense of self and improves your self-confidence. You can handle whatever curveball life chooses to throw at you.