One member of our community admits she felt ‘very isolated’ and ‘constantly anxious’ in her expat life until she signed up for a language course and joined a fitness class: “That changed everything for me.”
In the doldrums
When everything is unfamiliar, and you have no itinerary or appointments in your diary, it’s easy – and entirely normal – to feel a little lost when trying to adapt to a new culture. “When the initial honeymoon period ended, I was really struggling,” admits Jenny, an expat partner who had given up her career before relocating. “I just didn’t know what to do with all the time I suddenly had. On top of that, I felt uncertain about the future and lonely, so much so, I thought about moving back home.”
The right direction
But Jenny soon discovered that giving her week a little shape would have a transformative effect. “On the advice of my Global Connection consultant, I signed up for an in-person language course with three classes a week. I also joined a Pilates class and started taking daily walks. Perhaps it doesn’t sound like much, but establishing some weekly routines changed my mindset. I feel far less isolated and much less anxious. I can’t say everything is perfect, but I’m moving in the right direction.”
A new rhythm
Isolation, uncertainty, a lack of purpose – what Jenny went through afflicts many expat partners as they seek to readjust to a new culture. They’re caught staring at a blank canvas and unsure how to move forward. But as Jenny discovered, you don’t need to shoot for the moon. Regular activities can help you build routines with predictable patterns that create social connections and bring much-needed stability to your life.
Adapt as you go
What you choose to do is entirely up to you – learn the local language, join a book club, take up a team sport, volunteer, do whatever you like! What’s important is that these classes / activities won’t just fill your time – they will give you a sense of purpose and provide momentum, making your new environment feel more manageable and more familiar. As you settle in, your needs and interests will inevitably evolve, and new opportunities will arise, so don’t be afraid to adjust your schedule accordingly, or tear it up and start fresh! What matters is anchoring your days and weeks with a structure that supports your well-being and helps you feel at home.
* The interviewee’s name has been changed
This article was originally published for the thousands of expat partners that Global Connection supports around the globe. It is reproduced here in its original form.
