Moving abroad is more than just a logistical endeavour. It’s important that you have the right mental attitude about your move. Expats who have already relocated abroad all report that the right attitude can have a profoundly positive effect on your outcome. With the right attitude, obstacles become challenges, stress flips on its head and becomes adventure and risk turns into reward.
More than just a visa and a plane ticket
Yes, your move abroad starts with securing your visa or a valid work permit, but it’s important to identify your motivation for moving. Are you moving because of push factors or pull factors? Either way it’s important to write these down. When things become challenging during your relocation, it helps to get out your ‘reasons to relocate’ and remind yourself why you are doing what you are doing.
Flexibility is key
The more rigid your attitude and your expectations about your move abroad, the harder it will be. A fixed mindset is the “belief that your qualities are carved in stone” according to Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist. A fixed mindset prevents you from taking risks like learning a new language.
In your new country of residence, many things will be handled differently and life will move at a different pace. You have to be flexible enough to adjust your plans and beliefs accordingly whenever necessary.
Be open
You are moving countries, change is inevitable. Be open to new experiences and new ways of doing things. Both at home and at work, be open to new procedures and routines. If you’ve recently relocated to Spain, Portugal or Italy from the UK or the USA, you might be surprised to discover that people dine later in the evening and night-life only begins around 10pm. Embrace the difference. Integrating into the local culture will make you feel ‘at home’ far sooner than if you stick to your old habits.
Embrace adventure
The best part of relocating is being exposed to a whole new culture. You’re likely to experience change in everything from the food to the pace of life. Challenge yourself to try a new experience or food every day – or at least once a week. Don’t make the mistake of settling into a daily routine. Remain a tourist in your new hometown and experience as much as possible of your new culture.
Be selective
According to Jim Rohn, your mindset is “the average of the five persons you spend the most time with” so try and surround yourself with positive people. Actively search for expats who have made a success of their life in your new country.
Be prepared
Nothing helps you feel more mentally calm than knowing you have done everything to prepare for your move. Having the right mind set extends to your financial situation. Financial stability and financial planning are essential elements to ensure your success.
FinGlobal. For complete peace of mind
As South Africa’s first financial emigration company, FinGlobal has helped thousands of South Africans move abroad. We understand the South African expat community and assist them daily with accessing opportunities relevant to their cross-border financial portfolios. For more information about how to financially emigrate, transfer retirement savings, claim tax refunds and access foreign exchange at highly competitive rates, contact us today.