yesterday, I read an article. It was about the story of an expat "claiming" about all things not happening to his "new" country compared to his "old" one.
I started thinking about it. Comparison. A big trap that can only work as an obstacle not letting you move forward.
Living in a new country is a "terra incognita", a really challenging situation. A good way to survive is this situation be seen as a new adventure. For some reason, you have chosen to be there. The country, the people were already there before you. It would be not possible to change for you. But you can make an effort to adapt. The easiest would be to find communities from your country. However, this is not the issue here. Try to socialize and integrate with the locals. Try to learn their language - even a few words at the beginning-, accept their invitations, learn their customs and habits. This is what will make your new life easier. Consider of registering your children to the local schools instead of the international ones (unless if there are other reasons). Your children need friends and so do you ! It could be a good start to chat with other parents outside the school for a few minutes, or accept a party invitation. You will be amazed of how many people will be willing to help or to give you advises and useful information. Of course, if you don't have children, you could accept an invitation from your business colleagues, or roommate, or you could chat with the grocery man, etc. The point here and what I am trying to say in one word is OPEN yourself to the new conditions. Open your mind and let yourself explore the country, the people, the little alleys, the foods, the smells, everything. This will be your new country -temporarily or permanently, it doesn't matter-. It's not fair to compare it with your "old" country. It is not possible to forget it but on the other hand, give the "new" one a chance...
