Chapter 1: The Idea of Relocating

At first glance, the thought of moving to another country may seem unnecessary. It's not a decision one typically makes on a whim. Often, underlying factors lead individuals to contemplate such a significant change.

To aid in your decision-making process, I previously addressed some pivotal questions in another article. I trust you will find it useful:

2 Questions to Ask If You're Considering Moving Abroad

Let’s explore whether you're ready to embark on a new journey abroad.

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Life often presents dilemmas that prompt the question: “Should I relocate to a different country?” The motivations behind this question can be varied—professional, educational, or personal—but they are not the focus of this discussion.

If you are seeking guidance on making this transition, this post aims to support you in that journey.

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There are numerous lessons to be learned from exploring new places. However, certain insights can only be gained through living in a foreign country for an extended period, rather than merely visiting as a tourist.

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An "alien" refers to someone who is not a citizen of the country they inhabit or work in (source: Oxford dictionary). To accompany your reading, consider the famous song “I am an Englishman in New York” by Sting:

If you enjoy delving into blog posts and learning from others' experiences, it's likely that you have a thirst for knowledge and self-improvement. I believe that everyone should experience living abroad at least once in their lifetime, as it can greatly contribute to personal growth.

Imagine residing in a community with entirely different customs, values, and ways of life. What opportunities might arise from this? You would have the chance to observe others and draw comparisons with your home culture. This distance allows for a more objective evaluation of your upbringing and a clearer understanding of what aspects of your home country you appreciate or wish to change.

Ultimately, you would gain insight into what your homeland needs to enhance or address. Moreover, you would have the autonomy to choose your identity, as the experience of being away from home empowers you to assess what nationality truly means to you.

Stepping outside your comfort zone reveals your strengths and limitations, providing a profound perspective on yourself and your community.

Final Thoughts

Citizens of a nation share various elements such as history, language, homeland, and culture. While one cannot choose their place of birth, that nation undeniably shapes character. To truly understand yourself, your fellow citizens, and the people of other nations, experiencing life as an expatriate is essential. This is the most effective way to conduct objective observations about yourself and the world around you.