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Living overseas for work or education is frequently looked up to by those who stay back home.
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This journey is often seen as one marked by monetary prosperity, thrilling adventures, and self-improvement, yet it does not come without its set of difficulties.
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LIFEHACK.co.ke shares seven seldom-discussed hard truths about moving abroad that you might not be aware of.
Expatriate life is frequently idealized as an adventure marked by monetary prosperity, thrilling encounters, and self-discovery.
Although these elements hold true for numerous individuals, the experience also entails quite a few challenges—difficulties that often go unmentioned.
Rachan Hegde, an individual from India who relocated to the UK in 2021, disclosed seven poignant insights into moving abroad. Her experiences ranged from grappling with isolation to managing monetary challenges.
1. Feelings of Isolation and Nostalgia Are Genuine
At first glance, living overseas seems alluring with its higher salaries, increased prospects, and a more luxurious way of life.
Nevertheless, the lack of nearby loved ones and familiar environments can significantly impact someone’s mental health.
No quantity of video chats can substitute for an earnest talk with a parent in the kitchen or a bustling family meal on a Sunday evening.
She began, saying that it would affect you more deeply if you have never been away from home or come from an exceptionally tight-knit family.
2. Relocating for Incorrect Motives Can Result in Disappointment
A lot of people abandon lucrative career paths in their own countries seeking the appeal of foreign employment, but often end up in positions well beneath their qualifications.
Likewise, students frequently select foreign institutions of higher learning without adequate investigation, often drawn by their reputation rather than the standard of education or potential job opportunities.
If the relocation lacks proper planning, the initial enthusiasm may swiftly diminish, resulting in disappointment and remorse.
Enthusiasm, strategy, and pragmatic aspects ought to be the primary elements in making such choices.
“She personally wouldn’t consider studying anything she isn’t passionate about, regardless of where on the globe it might place her,” she disclosed.
3. The Quest for Genuine Homemade Cuisine
For individuals accustomed to homemade dishes, adapting to unfamiliar cuisines might pose a difficulty.
Although eateries serving international cuisine are widespread overseas, they frequently adapt their menus to suit local preferences, which can make them seem less genuine.
The expense associated with enjoying customary meals, only to discover they are disappointing, is a common experience for many expatriates.
4. Generating Income in a Robust Currency Is Accompanied by Significant Costs
A common misconception regarding life overseas is that increased wages necessarily equate to greater financial liberty.
Although salaries might be greater, the costs are also elevated.
The rental price for a single room in a shared house within the outskirts of the UK typically ranges from £600 to £800 (approximately KSh 97,500 to 130,000) monthly; however, in London, these costs can skyrocket above £1,000 (roughly KSh 162,000).
Include travel costs, parking fees, and everyday essentials, and soon you’ll find your income being eaten away by these expenses.
5. Social Activities Wane, Making Weekends More Serene
Forming new friendships as an adult can be difficult enough, and it gets even tougher when you’re in a foreign land.
Unlike the spontaneous social connections formed in college or at home, building friendships as an adult living abroad demands intentional effort.
Many expatriates find their social circles shrinking and their weekends surprisingly free.
Those used to active social lives may find this transition particularly difficult.
6. The Sun Turns into a Faint Recollection
Fighting seasonal depression can be particularly challenging in nations experiencing extended cold seasons.
In locations such as the United Kingdom, daylight may vanish as early as 4 pm during the winter months, making it a routine annoyance to bundle up in several layers before venturing outdoors.
The dull, chilly days may seem endless, causing a yearning for the comfort of home.
Nevertheless, the cheerful and vibrant summers do provide some comfort.
7. The Early Enthusiasm Fades Away
Seeing famous monuments such as the London Eye or the Eiffel Tower for the first time is absolutely stunning.
However, with time, these views turn into an everyday occurrence, causing the initial enthusiasm to wane.
What initially seemed like an exhilarating escapade ultimately transforms into merely another aspect of daily existence.
Even with the Obstacles, It’s Still Worth It
Although relocating overseas presents various challenges, it remains an invaluable experience to undertake.
It provides autonomy, opportunities for advancement, and essential life skills in resilience, adaptability, and setting personal limits.
Nonetheless, it is essential to tackle the transition with grounded expectations, understanding that along with the benefits, there will be challenges to address.
For those contemplating taking the plunge, the main factor is being well-prepared—both financially, as well as emotionally and mentally.
Since the external world might appear brimming with possibilities, capitalizing on these chances necessitates resilience, perseverance, and a receptive mindset.
