I live in a country I wasn’t born in and I didn’t grow up in. Essentially I’m an Expat of sorts. I’m not alone in my reality, many people have had the opportunity to live either temporarily or permanently in another country. I’m lucky that my move was for advancement for my family and myself and not for reasons of necessity or displacement.  Moving half way across the world from Sydney to Seattle has been an amazing journey. Yes the weather is somewhat different as people are always quick to point out but It’s by no means unbearable. The air is fresh, the people are super friendly and kind hearted. The forests are amazing and the idea of having 4 distinct seasons where everything changes so dramatically is so foreign to anything I know.

So what don’t people tell you when you leave your home.

• New friends are amazing and you have no choice but to make them quickly, but nothing makes up for the heartbreak you feel when your best friends are a million miles away.
• Your culture is yours and like no other, its tempting to make comparisons and judgements about your new home. Don’t be that person! There will never be anywhere as amazing as your home but comparing constantly will only make you sad and push away those who call your new country home. Accept the differences and focus on those that are enjoyable and new.
• Family will still be there for you no matter what so will the guilt of leaving them, that never diminishes…SORRY!
• The Taxation system is confusing and pretty much sux in every country, get a good accountant if you wish to survive without going crazy.
• Consider weather you really want the big house with the guest bedroom, you will get visitors, do you really want them staying for weeks on end?
• You will never be the same again after living in another country, your mind will broaden and you will view your home country in a whole new light.