7 Ways to Mentally Prepare Yourself Before Moving Abroad

Moving abroad, even for a short period, can be a daunting experience. The excitement and anticipation of a new adventure are often overshadowed by the fear of the unknown. However, with proper mental preparation, the transition can be smoother and more enjoyable. Here are 7 ways to mentally prepare yourself before stepping into the unknown.

1. Join an Online Social Group

One of the easiest ways to meet new people is by joining an online social group. Meetup is a great website to start, as it allows you to search for interest groups in your new city. You can also create your own group if there isn’t one already. Alternatively, Facebook can also be a useful tool; you can join groups related to your interests or work. For example, if you are an au pair, joining a city’s au pair group can help you find new friends or even a support system.

2. Schedule a Regular Time to Catch Up With Loved Ones

It’s natural to miss your loved ones when you are far away from them. Scheduling a regular time to catch up with them via Skype or other video conferencing apps can be comforting, as you can always look forward to hearing their voices and seeing their faces, regardless of the time zone. Make it a habit to catch up once a week or more frequently if your schedule allows.

3. Do What You’ve Always Wanted to Do

Living in a new country can give you an opportunity to pursue hobbies or interests that you were too busy to engage in before. With fewer distractions and more free time, it’s easier to explore and learn new things. Whether it’s taking a cooking class, hiking, learning a new language, or starting a business, follow your passions and meet like-minded people along the way.

4. Learn to Embrace New Challenges

Living abroad can be a challenging experience, but it can also be very rewarding. Challenges can help you grow and develop new skills. Instead of seeing them as negative, try to embrace them as opportunities to learn. Whether it’s a language barrier, cultural differences, or personal issues, face them head-on and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

5. Write a Note to Yourself to Read When You Feel Most Challenged

There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or homesick, or when you doubt your decision to move abroad. During moments like these, read a note that you wrote to yourself when you were more level-headed. This note should remind you why you chose to move abroad and what you hope to gain from the experience. Sometimes, all you need is a little encouragement from your past self to keep going.

6. Seek Comfort in Something You Can Always Have With You

When you’re abroad, you might miss the things that provide you with comfort back home. Simple things like a cup of coffee, a favourite album, or a photo in your wallet can provide you a sense of familiarity and remind you of happy moments. Keep something that brings you joy with you at all times, be it a memento or a digital copy, and look at it whenever you’re feeling blue.

7. Celebrate Your Successes

Celebrating your successes, no matter how small, can be a great way to build momentum and maintain a positive outlook. Record your accomplishments and reflect on them in a journal or a note app. Every time you overcome a challenge or achieve a goal, take note of it and give yourself a pat on the back. Celebrating your successes can build self-confidence and help you acclimatize to your new surroundings.

In conclusion, moving abroad can be a life-changing experience that can broaden your horizons and expand your mind. By mentally preparing yourself before the move, you can minimize the difficulties and enjoy the adventure. Joining social groups, scheduling regular calls with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, embracing challenges, giving yourself encouraging notes, seeking comfort in small things, and celebrating your successes are all excellent ways to prepare for the mental challenges of moving abroad.