Moving abroad is like leaping off a cliff and hoping you land on a trampoline! If you've ever played the expat game, you know it's a rollercoaster ride with all the thrills, chills, and unexpected twists. Our adventure kicked off in the stunning landscapes of Canada, took us through the charming streets of Sweden, and finally dropped us into the lively vibes of Spain. So, grab a snack and let me spill some fun lessons we've picked up about rolling with the punches and the magic of starting fresh. With our expat wisdom in your back pocket, we're here to help you tackle the ups and downs of relocating and get cozy in your new city!
The Decision to Move
Deciding to become an expat is no small feat. In our case, the decision was driven by a desire for adventure and a change of scenery. Canada, with its breathtaking landscapes and friendly people, felt like home, but we yearned for something different.
As we mulled over our options, Sweden stood out for its progressive culture and emphasis on work-life balance. We were excited about the opportunities to expand our horizons, yet the thought of leaving behind what we knew was daunting.
Despite the nerves, we packed our bags and ventured toward this new beginning.
Settling into Sweden
Upon arriving in Sweden, we were met with a blend of excitement and culture shock. The cobblestone streets and the beautiful architecture painted a picture of a vibrant history. However, the chilly climate was a stark contrast to the beauty of this city.
One valuable lesson we learned in Sweden was the importance of community. We struggle finding a circle of friends. With a focus on social connections, it was crucial to step outside of our comfort zone. We never managed to connect and make meaningful friendships that made us feel at home. We met people here and there, but lacked the deep connection with locals.
We also navigated the complexities of the Swedish language. While many locals spoke English, making an effort to learn Swedish can open new doors on the long term. Our daughter was immersed in Swedish and learned the language really fast. I was working remotely, all day from home and in English, which made my learning experience a bit frustrating . It was always easier for me to speak in english, since everyone would speak to me in english anyway. I was open to embrace changes, and I know that meant stepping into challenges and recognizing that growth often comes from discomfort. Even with this mindset, I found it difficult to navigate in the Swedish culture.
Embracing Change in Spain
After almost a year in Sweden, the call for sun and a different pace of life led us to Spain. (Honestly, work called us to Spain, and then we went!)
The warmth of the Spanish sun felt like a long-lost friend. The vibrant culture, delicious food, and lively lifestyle beckoned us to embrace yet another change...Yes, I know, right!
Moving to Spain was all about letting go of the organized routines we had in Sweden and Canada. Here, it’s all about being spontaneous and enjoying the little things in life. This shift has been super exciting so far, filled with laughter, great moments and a better immersion in the culture and language.
We ran into some annoying red tape, but we managed to deal with it. It wouldn’t be Spain, if it wasn't bureaucratic...lol
One challenge, however, was adjusting to the pace of life. In Spain, things moved at a different rhythm. Understanding that not everything was urgent helped us relish each day more fully. This laid-back mentality allowed us to slow down and appreciate our surroundings, transforming our perspective on life abroad.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Embrace the Unknown
Every step comes with its own set of surprises. Instead of worrying about what we don't know, we decided to roll with it. Every new spot we hit up brought unexpected joys that made our lives richer and opened our minds a bit more.
Be Open to New Experiences
In Sweden, we expanded our culinary horizons by trying new foods and experimenting with local recipes. In Spain, we seized the chance to explore the community and felt at ease with weather and language by participating in local festivals. Being open to new experiences created bonds with locals and other expats, building a fabulous network of friends across different cultures.
Prioritize Communication
Language barriers can seem a bit daunting, but they often spark some really creative solutions. When we first tried to speak the local language in Sweden, it was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. From fumbling over words to using gestures to get our point across, those moments actually helped us build confidence and made our time abroad even more enjoyable.
Celebrate Small Wins
Every milestone, no matter how small, deserves recognition. Whether tackling a difficult grocery list in a new language or mastering local public transportation, celebrating these accomplishments is crucial. It reinforces motivation and reminds us that growth often comes from the simplest of victories.
Conclusion
Our journey from Canada to Sweden and then to Spain really shows how awesome it is to embrace change. Each place added something special to our lives, helping us learn to adapt, grow, and enjoy all the different things that make life colourful.
As expats, life abroad is far from straightforward...even more with a kid. Yet, with every challenge, we discover resilience and find joy in the little moments. So, whether you’re contemplating a move or already navigating the expat maze, remember that every step taken is part of a beautiful journey. Embrace change, and it might just lead you to unexpected places that feed your soul.
Embracing change is ultimately about recognizing the potential for growth and connection all around us. If there’s one takeaway from our journey, it's this: life abroad is an adventure waiting to be explored, and every new destination holds the promise of discovery.
Whether you're moving with family or setting off on your own, each experience adds a new chapter to your story. So, pack your bags, take a deep breath, and enjoy the ride!
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