When we are starting to learn a new language we typically jump into the details of vocabulary, grammar, pronouns, and verbs… the list is extensive. 

But what if I told you that there is a step – and a crucial one – that precedes language learning per se? And what if I told you that this step is so crucial that it can fast-track your language learning progress? 

It’s all about setting your language learning goal. 

Many times we want to learn a new language but we are not clear on what we want the language for. We tell ourselves that we need the language to work in a new country, or to communicate with locals, or even because it’s the “right thing to do” when we live abroad.

And all that is great. Nothing wrong with that. But it typically is not enough to keep us motivated throughout the learning curve. There will be moments when it’ll be hard and if our motivations are external, it’s almost certain we will procrastinate and not know how to deal with the frustration. 

That’s why creating a language learning goal is so crucial – it’s the prize you will keep your eye on when things get tough. And it’s important that the proverbial prize be something that comes from within – ideally a feeling you’ll get when you accomplish the goal.

It can be hard to dig deep into our motivations on our own. Let’s face it – we might not even know what questions to ask ourselves to create this so-called language learning goal. If that’s you, you’re in luck because I’m going to share some important tips to help you create a language-learning goal that makes sense and feels motivating.

Know what you want the language for

When thinking about your goal, make it very specific and simple. Sometimes we say “I want to be fluent” without defining what fluency means to us. So, when starting out creating your language learning goal, think about where, with whom, and in what context you want to use the language. 

Is it for work? Are you going to study? Are you going to use the language in daily conversations? 

Visualize the situations where you will use this new language and write it down.

Make sure to consult reputable sources, such as embassies and official agencies, to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations. Beware of outdated information from unofficial sources, as rules can change frequently. Remember to use tools like Google Translate if needed to understand foreign websites and resources.

Another source of help can be a family member. Families typically rely on one person for this task, and it can be overwhelming. Make sure to delegate and distribute tasks so no one bites off more than they can chew.

One of the most common reasons that we don’t reach our language learning goals is that it seems too vague or too big. When you are specific, you make it less vague, but it might feel unattainable. 

So start small. Make your goal tiny and build up as you go. 

Sometimes when creating our language learning goal we feel goal FOMO – if we choose a small goal we’re missing out on bigger achievements. But here’s the thing – once you reach a goal, you can always create another one, a bit bigger. And little by little you get to your ultimate goal, keeping up your motivation and stamina.

Language learning is a huge part of adjusting to a new country, so it’s no surprise that my clients have this challenge. Let me tell you about Grace – we worked together when she was preparing for her move to Portugal from the US, and like most people, she wanted to learn Portuguese because it was “the right thing to do”. Very quickly she realized that pleasing other people – the locals – was not enough to make her book her classes and do the homework. 

So she defined her goal – she wanted to have a 5-minute conversation, completely in Portuguese with an Uber driver. That would make her feel independent and functioning in her new country. That also seemed attainable enough. 

She gave herself 2 months to achieve the goal and focused her studies on phrases and words she’d use in this type of situation. 

When we met one month later, she celebrated the fact that she had been able to have a 5-minute conversation with an Uber driver without using English. And right after the celebration, she set herself a new goal: go to a yoga class in Portuguese and not ask for help in English.

Starting to learn a language can be daunting. But when we have the right structure to organize what we want, when we want it, and how we want it, the abstract becomes tangible. 

Our desired outcome becomes ever more real so our language teachers can help us get there faster.

Get the Free eBook Move Overseas with Ease Here 

PS: Ready to take your move abroad to the next level? Join the Expat Journey Program and replace guesswork with a framework and get everything done. 

I’ve been working as an expat coach for about 8 years. During this almost decade long career, the first thing that people think about when preparing for a move abroad is the logistics and paperwork.

Don’t get me wrong. That aspect is crucial – but it can also be such a source of overwhelm and confusion that I decided to write this article. If you are preparing for a move abroad, this will be very helpful.

It really doesn’t matter if we need to apply for a visa or not – moving abroad means changing every single thing about our lives. And the paperwork represents many areas of our life.

So in this article, I’ll share three important tips to get you started on the right track and make this part of the move as smooth as possible.

To begin, it’s essential to categorize your paperwork. Start by organizing them into distinct categories. Health-related documents, such as dental and medical records for yourself, your family, and even your pets, fall under one category. Insurance, including policies that apply in different countries, should be considered. Another category involves personal identification documents like passports, IDs, and driver’s licenses. Additionally, educational documents, such as school transfers, grades, and transcripts, should be sorted accordingly. If you own real estate, you’ll need to gather related documents. Lastly, taxes and tax returns make up another significant category. By separating your paperwork into these categories, you establish a foundation for efficient management.

Once you’ve identified the categories that are important to you and your family, it’s critical to set deadlines for fulfilling each one. When confronted with a large number of documents and deadlines, many people become overwhelmed.

Create a timetable outlining the start and finish dates for each category to overcome this. Begin by determining how many categories you have and how much you can do in the following two weeks. Two weeks is a good length for focusing without feeling pressured.

If you have a lot of time before your relocation, you can take your time with the process. However, if time is of the essence, prioritize properly. Remember that some tasks, such as acquiring apostilles and filling out forms, may require more time.

Remember, you don’t have to face this paperwork challenge alone. If the process becomes too overwhelming or stressful, consider seeking professional assistance. Relocation agencies or immigration attorneys are available in most countries and can help you navigate the complexities of paperwork.

We often worry about how much these services will cost, but professional help is often more affordable than you’d expect and will give you peace of mind. These experts can ensure that you consider all the necessary factors and help you organize your documents effectively.

Make sure to consult reputable sources, such as embassies and official agencies, to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations. Beware of outdated information from unofficial sources, as rules can change frequently. Remember to use tools like Google Translate if needed to understand foreign websites and resources.

Another source of help can be a family member. Families typically rely on one person for this task, and it can be overwhelming. Make sure to delegate and distribute tasks so no one bites off more than they can chew.

Managing paperwork as an expat may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, you can handle it smoothly. By categorizing your documents, setting timelines for completion, and seeking assistance when necessary, you can streamline the process and reduce stress. Remember to consult reliable sources for accurate information and stay updated on changing regulations.

Moving abroad is like a marathon – consistency is key. Make sure you are breaking down the steps into manageable bites, and ask for help so you can also enjoy the scenery.

If you found this content helpful, check out the International Relocation Starter Course, a free resource that provides essential insights on preparing for a confident and connected move abroad.

PS: Ready to take your move abroad to the next level? Join the Expat Journey Program and replace guesswork with a framework and get everything done. 

Moving abroad is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common aspects that hold people back from making this life-changing step is fear.

In my practice as an expat coach and intercultural psychologist, the people who have the hardest time overcoming this fear are solo movers.

It is completely understandable, as moving to a place where we don’t speak the language and don’t have friends can be quite intimidating. But what I hear most from my solo clients is that “it would be a lot easier if I were in a couple or had a family”. I’ve heard this so many times that I decided to write this article to shed some light on this topic.

Whether you’re considering a solo move or simply curious about the topic, read on to gain a deeper understanding of this unique journey.

We tend to think that the “grass is always greener” on the other side. But I see people’s lives behind the curtains. During the 1-1 calls with my clients, they share their challenges in a way that they probably would never show on social media.

One amazing upside of moving solo is freedom and empowerment.

When we move abroad alone, we have the freedom to make decisions according to our own preferences and needs. We don’t need to consider the desires and opinions of others. We can choose where we want to live, how we want to live, what to bring, what to leave, and when to move.

We can determine if we want to have an intense social life or if we want to be more low key. And if something doesn’t work out, we can change, redirect, and recalibrate.

Moving alone also eliminates the need to compromise on important decisions.

While couples and families often need to find a middle ground that satisfies everyone, solo movers have the luxury of making choices solely for themselves. Whether it’s the type of accommodation, the duration of your stay in a particular place, or the level of commitment, you have the autonomy to decide what works best for you.

Are there downsides to moving solo?

Yes, there are – and I’m not one to sugarcoat the reality and challenges of life abroad.

Moving abroad alone means shouldering all logistical responsibilities and emotional challenges without the support of a partner or family.

Tasks such as finding a doctor, dealing with paperwork, or even getting through a bout of illness can feel daunting when you don’t have someone to rely on. It’s essential to be prepared for these situations and establish a strong social support system before your move to ensure a smoother transition.

While this downside is real, there are ways to minimize the negative effects and reduce the risks.

Solo movers may sometimes experience feelings of isolation, especially if they haven’t established a supportive network in their new location. Unlike couples or families who have built-in companionship, solo movers need to actively seek out like-minded individuals and invest time and effort in building friendships. Taking proactive steps to connect with others who understand your journey can help combat loneliness and create a sense of belonging.

Making friends when moving abroad can be challenging sometimes, so if you want to create a strategy to jump start your friend making when moving abroad, the Master Your Move Program might be perfect for you.

Despite all the websites that promise all the check lists and solutions to moving abroad, this is a deeply personal experience, and there is no right or wrong way to approach it. Each individual has their own boundaries, preferences, and unique circumstances. What matters most is aligning your choices with your values and living authentically.

Find what works best for you where you are on your journey. When we are true to our values and priorities, we forge a path that feels right, no matter where we want to be.

Get the Free eBook Move Overseas with Ease Here

PS: Ready to take your move abroad to the next level? Join the Expat Journey Program and replace guesswork with a framework and get everything done. 

When we are preparing for a move abroad, it sometimes seems like we have an endless to-do list. 

But then, once we’ve submitted our paperwork and are awaiting authorization to move, it may feel like time stands still. It’s like we are hurrying up to get lots of things done, and then, once the application is sent out, it’s all about waiting. 

The time between the visa submission and the response can be filled with anticipation and uncertainty. In this blog post, I’ll share three important tips to help you navigate this waiting period effectively.

When you’ve submitted your application, it’s essential to shift your mindset and focus on what you can control. Understand that once your paperwork is submitted, the outcome is out of your hands. Instead of fixating on the unknown, direct your attention to elements within your control. This includes managing your attitude, maintaining a positive outlook, practicing mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises, and monitoring your thoughts. By shifting your focus to the present moment and taking the necessary steps one at a time, you can minimize the stress and anxiety associated with the waiting game.

While waiting for authorization, use the time to your advantage by staying proactive and focusing on tasks that need attention. Consider decluttering and organizing your belongings, saying goodbye to loved ones, researching your new location, or even planning your new home decor. By engaging in these activities, you not only create a sense of accomplishment but also begin the process of mentally transitioning to your new life abroad. Utilize the resources available, such as online guides and videos, to assist you in this preparation phase.

During the waiting period, it’s natural to experience moments of doubt and second-guessing. This is an ideal time to revisit your motivations for moving abroad. Reflect on why you made this decision in the first place and what you hope to achieve by embarking on this journey, as well as what you are moving for—the purpose of the move. When you know your “what for” as well as why you want to move, you’ll gain confidence and know where to get the strength to go through the stress of waiting for a decision.

It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this process. Seek support from others who have gone through similar experiences or join communities of expats. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide a sense of belonging and reassurance during the waiting period.

If you’re seeking further guidance, support, and connection during this waiting period, consider exploring the Mastery Move program. This group coaching program is designed to provide a supportive community and expert guidance for individuals preparing to move abroad. Check out all the details and book a free enrollment call HERE.

By focusing on what you can control, staying proactive and connected, and harnessing your motivation, you can make the most of this time and prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for your upcoming adventure.

PS: Ready to take your move abroad to the next level? Join the Expat Journey Program and replace guesswork with a framework and get everything done. 

To say that moving abroad is a major life-event is an understatement. Everything in your life as you know it will change, your address, the foods you eat, the water you drink, the language you speak.

You might have to sacrifice a lot for this international move, leaving family and friends, relationships you’ve spent a lifetime building. You will probably have many expenses from packing and shipping to visa fees and destination paperwork. I think it’s fair to say that you are undertaking an enormous investment financially, emotionally, physically, and energetically.

Being successful in this life adventure is the goal, but there are many people who find the adjustment in a new country quite difficult. I understand these obstacles to cultural adjustment all too well. Years ago, when I first moved to Portugal, I felt completely out of place and unhappy. The move took an enormous toll on my life, and yet I didn’t have a clue as to why I was miserable or how to make positive changes.

When I began my master’s degree in intercultural psychologist, I decided to research the statistics on expat failure. I wanted to understand why some people like myself found it difficult to adjust to a new country. In my studies, I came across these statistics. Up to 40% of international assignments in corporate settings failed. Expat failure is defined by employees on international assignments, returning to their home country before the end of the project.

For the companies sponsoring these moves, the cost of each employee failure is estimated at approximately USD $300,000. The statistics and financial costs are mind blowing, which do not even consider the emotional hardships of the employees and their families.

These findings led me to think about the expats who finds themselves unhappy and unproductive but complete their overseas’ assignment. In my opinion, I think these percentages are much higher and probably double the failure rate. And again, the human factor, the human cost of the emotional and mental distress of the employees and families are tremendous.

It’s important to understand why these people have been unsuccessful. According to the study, the most prevalent reason for the high failure rates came from the inability for employees and their families to adjust to the local culture and environment. Granted, this report studied corporate settings and many people move abroad on their own. However, based on my experience working with expat clients for the past nine years, these discoveries are even more relevant.

When we move abroad, we bear the financial burden. We are responsible for all our decisions, and we alone deal with the consequences. We need to do all we can to reduce our risks and increase our chances of success.

I don’t mean a list of all the reasons why you are moving. Make a statement of what you want to accomplish. What are your goals? How do you want to live your life in this new country? Create your unique definition of what success means for you and your family.

Use this as a measuring stick to help you evaluate your first year abroad and beyond. Being clear on your We Are Moving For will get you through the rough patches, because you’ll know which goals are important for you to accomplish and the purpose behind this life-changing decision.

Yes, learning about a new culture is important. We all must learn the rules of our new countries, but just knowing something doesn’t change our emotions, behaviors, or attitudes.

I had a client who knew that people in his new country were usually late for appointments.

He knew that it was socially acceptable to be fifteen minutes late for a meeting. But every time someone arrived late, he found himself annoyed and affected the way he behaved towards others; he felt that it negatively impacted his overall sense of well-being. To adjust your cultural lens and better adapt to the different cultural norms you need to understand your own biases.

Doing this emotional training will help change your emotions, behaviors, and attitudes towards a new culture.

Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.’ I couldn’t agree more. But here’s the truth you just can’t prepare paperwork and logistics. Prepare yourself emotionally, physically, and mentally. Moving abroad can be stressful, exciting, overwhelming, and frustrating, all at the same time.

You don’t need to do this all on your own. There are free resources like my series of YouTube videos and Facebook group that offers support and connection. To have a successful transition, understand there will be hard times, but know there are many resources available to help with the cultural adjustment.

My work is all about helping you and other expats and immigrants prepare for your move abroad. I am here to support you and increase your chances of success, however you define success.

You can sign up for my free online International Relocation Course here. This practical-minded course is filled with information for your move abroad.

Please feel free to contact me with questions and information about courses and 1:1 sessions. I look forward to working with you and your family.

PS: Ready to take your move abroad to the next level? Join the Expat Journey Program and replace guesswork with a framework and get everything done.