How to Re-Create Your Life Once You’ve Moved Abroad

So, you did it. You packed your bags, said a teary (or relieved) goodbye to your hometown, and landed in a whole new country. You imagined stepping off the plane and instantly transforming into an effortlessly cool, well-traveled version of yourself. But now you’re here, and... uh, what now? Your Wi-Fi isn’t working, you don’t know where to buy eggs, and suddenly, you miss your mom.

Take a deep breath, my fellow expat. Here’s how you can re-create your life in your new home without spiraling into an identity crisis.

1. Accept That You’re a Beginner (Again)

Remember how competent you were back home? You knew which bus to take, how to order coffee without panicking, and where to find the best pizza. Now, you have to Google how to turn on your washing machine. It's humbling, but guess what? Everyone goes through this.

Instead of stressing, embrace the beginner phase. Laugh at your mispronunciations. Accept that you’ll get lost. A lot. And don’t be afraid to ask locals for help—most of them actually enjoy showing off their home turf to a lost foreigner.

2. Say “Yes” (Even When It Feels Awkward)

When a new friend invites you to a local event, say yes. Even if you have no idea what you’re getting into. Even if it’s a group salsa class and your coordination level is "baby giraffe on roller skates."

Saying yes is how you meet people, try new things, and build your social circle. Worst case? You gain a funny story. Best case? You find your new favorite hobby or make lifelong friends. Either way, it’s a win.

3. Create a Routine That Feels Like You

It’s easy to feel lost when everything is unfamiliar. The secret? Build small routines that make you feel at home in your new city. Find a coffee shop where they almost remember your order. Take the same morning walk. Pick a weekly "treat-yourself" meal (because comfort food is a form of therapy).

The more familiar things become, the more your new country will start to feel like home.

4. Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

Growth happens outside your comfort zone, blah blah blah—you’ve heard it before. But seriously, lean into the discomfort. The awkward first conversations, the weird social customs, the baffling bureaucracy—it’s all part of the adventure.

Besides, you’ll wake up one day and realize that the things that used to stress you out (like navigating public transport or ordering food in another language) now feel totally normal. That’s the magic of adapting.

5. Build Your Own Community

Making friends as an adult is hard. Making friends in a new country? Even harder. But don’t wait for people to come to you—be the one who reaches out! Join expat groups, go to meetups, chat with coworkers, or (wild idea) talk to your neighbors.

And if you don’t find a community that fits? Create one. Start a book club, a weekend hiking crew, or just a regular “let’s try weird snacks from the grocery store” night. People are always looking to connect—you just have to take the first step.

6. Give Yourself Time

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a new life abroad. You’ll have days where you feel unstoppable and days where you question every decision you’ve ever made. That’s normal. Keep going.

One day, without realizing it, you’ll wake up and realize that this strange, foreign place is home now.

And you? You’re thriving.

Love, XoC

✨ So tell me—what’s been the funniest or most unexpected thing about moving abroad so far? Drop your stories in the comments! ✨