Struggling to communicate abroad? Learn how to adapt to cultural communication styles—whether high-context or low-context—and connect with ease and confidence in your new country.

When you move to a new country or begin working across cultures, one thing becomes clear very quickly: communication isn’t universal.

It’s not just about what you say—it’s about how it’s said, when it’s said, and even what’s left unsaid. And if you’re not tuned into these differences, misunderstandings can pop up fast.

The good news? 

You can learn to navigate new communication styles—and still stay true to who you are.

Let’s start with two big-picture communication styles: high-context and low-context.

 High-Context Communication

• Relies on relationships, body language, and implied meaning

• Emphasizes harmony and group connection

• Common in many Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and Latin American cultures
  

In high-context settings, people often take time to build rapport before diving into the main point. It’s not uncommon to discuss the weather, ask about family, or make small talk before getting down to business.

 Low-Context Communication

• Direct, clear, and focused on facts

• Prioritizes efficiency and individual expression

• Found in cultures like the U.S., Germany, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia
  

Low-context communicators value getting straight to the point. They’re often more task-focused and may see small talk as a delay, rather than a connection builder.

Before adapting to a new culture’s way of communicating, it helps to understand your own. Ask yourself:

• Do I prefer efficiency, or do I enjoy building personal rapport first?

• Do I value “getting to the point,” or does it feel more natural to warm into a conversation?

• Do I find small talk annoying—or essential?
  

Recognizing your communication comfort zone helps you adapt with more self-awareness (and less frustration).

1. Observe Before Jumping In

Pay attention to how people around you interact. Do they shake hands? Smile often? Ask personal questions before getting to business?

Just watching and listening can give you powerful clues about what’s expected.

2. Adjust Without Overhauling Who You Are

You don’t need to become a different person. Small tweaks can make a big difference.
If you’re used to being direct, try softening your tone or adding pleasantries before making a request. If you’re more indirect, you might need to practice being a bit more assertive in low-context cultures.

3. Ask for Feedback (Even the Subtle Kind)

Sometimes feedback isn’t direct—it’s in body language, awkward pauses, or how someone ends a conversation. Use these cues to make gentle course corrections.

And if you’re comfortable, ask a trusted local or colleague: “Is there anything I should do differently when I communicate here?”

4. Stay True to Yourself

Adapting doesn’t mean abandoning who you are. It’s about finding a respectful middle ground—where you can navigate local expectations without losing your voice or values.

When I moved back to Brazil after years abroad, my direct, no-nonsense communication style clashed with local norms. I got feedback that I was intimidating—something I’d never heard before.

At first, adding small talk felt weird. But when I started asking people about their weekend or their family before jumping into work topics, I noticed something shift. People opened up. 

Trust grew. Communication got easier.

It didn’t take much—just a bit of curiosity and willingness to meet people halfway.

Effective communication is more than a soft skill. It builds bridges. It creates trust. It’s what helps you go from surviving in a new country to truly connecting.

Whether you’re collaborating across cultures at work or ordering coffee in a new city, the ability to shift gears, read the room, and communicate with empathy makes everything smoother—and more rewarding.

In the Expat Journey Program, we dive deep into cultural adjustment, including how to communicate confidently across cultures. Whether you’re preparing to move or already abroad, I’ll help you build the awareness and tools you need to feel connected—wherever you land.

 Explore the Expat Journey Program

Living abroad means navigating cultural differences—and the assumptions that come with them. Here’s how a simple plumbing issue turned into a powerful reminder about curiosity, communication, and cultural understanding.

Living in another country teaches you a lot: how to adapt, how to communicate beyond words, how to laugh at yourself—and, surprisingly, how often we get things wrong by assuming.

This lesson came back to me recently in a very unexpected way: through a plumber.

A few days ago, I shared a short video on social media about an experience I had. Nothing dramatic—just a frustrating moment. A plumber had promised to send me an estimate… and then disappeared. No messages, no calls, nothing.

As someone who likes clear and direct communication, I used the story to reflect on how different cultures handle communication. Where I live now, the style tends to be more indirect—and that contrast alone can create misunderstandings, even over something as simple as a service appointment.

I didn’t mention which country I was in. I didn’t name the plumber. Just a light personal insight about how intercultural dynamics show up in everyday life.

And then the comment came.

“You should learn the local language.”

It was based entirely on assumptions.

The commenter assumed:

• That I didn’t speak the local language

• That I was speaking to the plumber in English

• That the plumber didn’t speak English

• And that the whole situation was somehow my fault—for not integrating
  

Here’s the truth?

I do speak the local language—fluently.
I had the entire conversation with the plumber in that language.
The issue had nothing to do with language barriers.

To their credit, the commenter deleted the message after I clarified. No apology, but hey… small victories.

Because we all do it.
Even those of us who teach about intercultural communication and have lived in multiple countries (hi)—we still fall into the trap of interpreting someone else’s behavior through our own lens.

It’s natural. It’s automatic.
But if we don’t stop to examine those assumptions, we miss out on real understanding.

Assumptions close doors. They:

• Block connection
• Limit empathy
• Create friction where there could be curiosity
• Lead to unfair judgments
  

When you live abroad—or even when you’re just having a conversation with someone from a different background—your job isn’t to assume. It’s to ask. To stay open. To remember that your way isn’t the only way.

And maybe this is something you want to carry with you too:

• Be curious before you’re critical.

• Ask before you assume.

• Breathe before you react.

Whether you’re navigating a new culture or just dealing with a ghosting plumber, these little mindset shifts can change everything.

There’s a whole world to discover—not just in the country you’ve moved to, but in every human interaction. If we can slow down, stay present, and let go of snap judgments, we open the door to deeper understanding and real connection.

So next time something doesn’t make sense, ask yourself: What might I be assuming here?

It might just teach you more than you expected—just like that plumber taught me.

The Expat Journey Program is here to help you move abroad—and grow through it. With resources, coaching, and a supportive community, you’ll build a life abroad that works for you.

Learn more at www.expatjourneyprogram.com

Not sure how to tell friends and family you’re moving abroad? Here are 5 thoughtful tips to share the news with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Moving abroad is full of excitement and possibility—but let’s be honest, telling your friends and family can feel like one of the hardest steps.

Whether you’re relocating for work, love, adventure, or a new beginning, sharing the news often brings a mix of emotions—for you and for them. The good news? There’s a way to approach this moment with confidence, care, and clarity.

These five practical tips will help you have more meaningful conversations and maintain strong relationships, even as your life changes in big ways.

Before you sit down to share your decision, take time to reflect. Why are you moving? What do you hope this move will bring into your life?

Ask yourself:

• What am I hoping to achieve?
• How does this support my long-term goals?
• What excites me about this next chapter?

When you’re clear on your motivation, it becomes easier to explain your decision without sounding like you’re running away from something. For example, instead of saying, “I just can’t stay here anymore,” try:

“I’m really excited about this opportunity—it aligns with my goals and the kind of life I want to create.”

That positive framing can make a big difference in how your loved ones receive the news.

You might hope for cheers, hugs, and instant support—but not everyone will react that way right away. And that’s okay.

People often need time to process big news. Their reactions may be shaped by their own fears, grief, or even envy. The key here? You can’t control their emotions, only how you respond.

Try to:

• Be patient

• Stay calm

• Avoid taking things personally

• Gently reassure them that your move doesn’t mean losing the relationship

One of the biggest concerns your loved ones may have is, “Will we stay in touch?” Having a plan helps ease that fear and shows them you’re committed to maintaining the relationship—even from a distance.

Some easy ways to stay connected:

• Set up monthly video calls

• Start a shared photo album or group chat

• Create birthday or anniversary reminders

• Send postcards or handwritten notes now and then (yes, real mail still matters!)
  

Staying connected doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be intentional.

Goodbyes can be emotional—but they can also be beautiful and bonding moments if you give them thought.

Here are a few ideas:

• Host a casual farewell get-together

• Give small, meaningful gifts (like a mug, photo, or keepsake you won’t bring with you)

• Write a heartfelt letter to someone special

• Create a “memory jar” where friends write down their favorite moment with you
  

One of my clients from the Master Your Move program gave her friends mugs she couldn’t pack, each with a handwritten note. It turned her goodbye into a celebration of connection—not a loss.

Start by making a list of who you want to tell personally—parents, siblings, best friends, mentors. Share your news:

• In person, when possible

• Via video call for long-distance loved ones

• Avoid text or email for your inner circle—it can feel cold or distant
  

After you’ve told your closest people, feel free to post on social media. This ensures no one important hears the news second-hand or feels overlooked.

Coordinating how and when you share your news matters. If you have a big family or friend group, try to inform everyone within a short window of time. You don’t want someone feeling left out or hearing the news second-hand.

A simple heads-up message like “I’d love to share some news with you this week—can we chat soon?” can go a long way toward keeping things smooth.

Telling people you’re moving abroad doesn’t have to be awkward or stressful. With a little preparation and a lot of heart, this moment can deepen your relationships—not strain them.

Remember: you’re not just leaving—you’re growing. And the people who love you will want to grow with you, even from afar.

If you’re planning an international move and want guidance through every step—from logistics to emotional transition—check out the Expat Journey Program. It’s an all-in-one resource designed to help you move (and live) abroad with ease.

Learn More at www.expatjourneyprogram.com

Moving abroad often means more than just changing countries—it can involve career shifts, family adjustments, and personal identity changes. Learn how to manage these dual transitions with clarity and confidence.

Relocating to a new country is a big life change. It can be exciting, inspiring, and filled with possibility. But here’s what we don’t always talk about: moving abroad often happens alongside other major transitions.

A career change. Retirement. Kids growing up or moving out. Pausing your own goals to support a partner’s opportunity. These dual transitions can pile on, leaving you emotionally drained or questioning your decision.

You’re not alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed—and there are ways to move through it with intention and grace.

Dual transitions are overlapping life changes that happen at the same time as your international move. And they can significantly affect how you adjust to your new environment. Here are some common examples:

Career and Retirement Transitions

Starting a new role, switching careers, or retiring altogether reshapes your daily rhythm and, often, your identity. Many retirees envision a calm, joyful life abroad—only to feel a surprising emptiness when the structure and purpose of work disappear.

Family Shifts

Relocating with kids changes everything—from school choices to your social network. Some parents find themselves raising little ones without any support nearby. Others may be facing an empty nest as their children move out for college or independence.

Identity Changes

Spouses who give up or pause their careers to follow a partner abroad may struggle with a loss of identity. Without a professional role or familiar structure, it’s easy to feel invisible, unsure of your purpose, or emotionally disconnected.

When multiple life shifts collide—especially in an unfamiliar setting—it’s easy to push emotions aside. You might tell yourself:

“I chose this, so I shouldn’t feel upset.”
“This will pass.”
“I’m just overreacting.”

But here’s the truth: emotions don’t disappear just because we ignore them. In fact, they often show up in unexpected ways—resentment, low energy, or a vague sense that something’s not right. Sometimes, people blame the new country, when what’s really happening is unprocessed change.

1. Be Honest About How You’re Feeling

This is the foundation. You can’t move through what you don’t acknowledge. You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed, nostalgic, sad, confused—even if you’re also excited and grateful. All of these emotions can live side by side.

Don’t judge yourself for needing time to adjust. This is a big deal.

2. Seek Connection, Not Just Information

Google can’t give you comfort—but other people can.

Look for local expat groups, international online communities, or people who’ve walked a similar path. Talking openly with others who get it can make a world of difference and help you feel less alone in the process.

3. Rebuild Purpose in a New Context

If you’ve left a job, closed a chapter, or shifted family roles, you may be wondering: Who am I now?

The answer comes in small steps. Try something that lights you up:

• Volunteer in your new community
• Revisit a hobby you loved years ago
• Learn something new (language, skill, creative pursuit)
• Start a blog, small business, or project that gives you meaning

For me, it was diving into psychology and becoming an expat coach after leaving my corporate career. What started as a personal passion turned into a whole new purpose.

Let’s be real: transitions aren’t supposed to be easy. They stretch us, shake up our routines, and sometimes leave us raw. But they also open the door to incredible personal growth.

Instead of rushing to “get back to normal,” ask yourself:

What is this moment teaching me?

When you allow space for discomfort, you create space for transformation.

If you’re in the middle of a move abroad and juggling other life changes, take a deep breath. You’re navigating a lot—and you’re doing better than you think.

Recognizing these dual transitions, finding connection, and rebuilding purpose will help you adjust with more ease, clarity, and compassion for yourself.

You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

If this resonated with you, I’d love to support your journey.

Let’s work together to make your move abroad not just successful—but meaningful.
Learn more at www.expatjourneyprogram.com

Wondering if you can truly become a local when moving abroad? Here’s why that goal might not be as helpful as you think—and what to focus on instead to feel at home in your new country.

If I had a euro for every time a client told me they wanted to become a local, I’d probably be sipping espresso on a balcony somewhere.

It’s a common wish: to fit in, blend with the culture, speak the language, adopt the customs, and just feel like you belong. I get it. That desire is very human. But here’s the thing I often say—sometimes out loud, sometimes only in my head:

You can’t truly become what you’re not.

Sure, you can integrate beautifully, speak fluently, and respect the local way of life. But you won’t become a local. And honestly? That’s not a bad thing.

When I dig a little deeper and ask, “What does becoming a local mean to you?” the answer is almost always about belonging.

People want to feel accepted. They don’t want to stand out. Some feel like locals get more respect, while foreigners are often seen as outsiders. So what they’re really craving is to feel “normal” in their new environment.

That’s completely valid—but trying to achieve it by becoming someone you’re not? That’s a recipe for frustration.

The truth is, belonging isn’t about how well you follow local customs. It goes deeper than that. Belonging comes from a connection—often unspoken—with the people around you. And that connection usually grows out of shared values, not shared habits.

This is where things can get tricky. You might discover that the things you care about deeply just aren’t as important in your new country. That realization can shake your idea of what living abroad would feel like. Sometimes it’s just a crack. Other times, the whole illusion shatters.

Here’s something I remind my clients often: we all have expectations when we move abroad. Even the people who swear they don’t.

(“I have no expectations!”... Yep. That’s an expectation.)

And let’s be real—reality rarely lives up to what we imagined. That doesn’t mean it’s worse. Just different. Your version of “becoming a local” might not look anything like how that actually plays out in real life.

Before we chase this elusive identity, it’s worth asking: What does being a local really mean?

Here’s where it gets interesting. Our brains love shortcuts. There’s even a name for it—out-group homogeneity bias—which basically means we tend to lump everyone who isn’t “us” into one big category.

So when we say things like “All Italians are like this,” or “Everyone in Portugal does that,” it’s that mental shortcut talking. In reality, locals aren’t one big homogenous group. They’re just as varied and complex as any other group of people—including expats.

Now, here’s where things get more empowering.

Instead of trying to become a local, I encourage you to create your own culture.

I call it cherry picking—and I’ve been doing it for years, long before I had a name for it. When I was working on my master’s in intercultural psychology, I finally found the words to describe what I’d been doing all along.

I take the habits, values, and customs I love from each country I’ve lived in—and I leave the rest. I create a lifestyle that feels right to me. One that reflects who I am and what I care about, no matter where I’m living.

And guess what? That’s where the real sense of belonging comes from. Not from fitting in, but from living in alignment with your values.

If you’ve been struggling to feel like you belong, or wondering why it all feels harder than you expected—you’re not alone. So many people try to fit in so hard, they end up losing parts of themselves. And when it doesn’t work, they start to question everything.

“Maybe this country isn’t for me.”
“Maybe I made a mistake.”
“Maybe I’ll never feel at home.”

But what if the real issue isn’t the country—it’s the expectation?

If this resonated with you, I have a free resource that can help:
Download my free ebook: Move Overseas with Ease

In it, I dive deeper into strategies for adjusting to a new country in a way that’s authentic and empowering—on your terms.