Retiring Abroad Together: A Question Exercise to Align Expectations

Retirement marks a significant chapter in life, and when you're living abroad as a couple, aligning your expectations becomes even more crucial. Planning for this phase requires open communication and a shared vision for the future. In this post, we'll explore a question exercise that spouses living abroad can work through together to ensure they're on the same page regarding their expectations for retirement.

Question Exercise: Building a Shared Vision for Retirement Abroad

1. Location and Lifestyle:

   • Where do you envision spending your retirement years (in your home country/abroad/in a third country)?

   • What type of lifestyle are you hoping to lead?

   Discussing the ideal location and lifestyle sets the foundation for retirement planning. Consider factors such as climate, cost of living, cultural amenities, and healthcare accessibility in potential locations.
   
   

2. Financial Goals and Budgeting:

   • What are your financial goals for retirement?

   • How do you envision budgeting for your lifestyle?

   If possible try to run some numbers! Be transparent about your financial expectations, including any plans for downsizing, investments, or additional income sources. Consider creating a budget that aligns with your desired lifestyle and savings goals.
   
   

3. Healthcare Considerations:

   • How do you plan to manage healthcare expenses during retirement?

   • Have you researched healthcare options in your chosen retirement location?

   Healthcare is a critical aspect of retirement planning. Discuss health insurance, potential medical expenses, and the quality of healthcare available in your chosen destination.
   
   

4. Social Connections:

   • What role do social connections play in your retirement vision (kids/siblings/friends/others)?

   • How do you plan to build and maintain a social circle in your retirement location?

   • Do you plan to maintain a social circle in your home country?

   Consider the importance of social connections for mental and emotional well-being. Discuss ways to stay connected with friends and family, as well as opportunities to build new relationships in your retirement community.
   
   

5. Travel and Hobbies:

   • Do you have specific travel plans or hobbies you want to pursue during retirement?

   • How will you balance personal interests with shared activities?

   Explore each other's passions and interests, both individually and as a couple. Discuss how you can support each other's hobbies and incorporate travel into your retirement plans.
   
   

6. Cultural Integration:

   • Do you see yourselves fully integrating into the local culture during retirement?

   • How will you balance maintaining your cultural identity with embracing the local lifestyle?

   If living abroad, discuss your approach to cultural integration. Find common ground on how much you want to immerse yourselves in the local community while still maintaining connections to your home culture.
   
   

7. Legacy and Philanthropy:

   • What legacy do you hope to leave behind during retirement?

   • Are there philanthropic goals or community contributions you want to explore?

   Consider the impact you want to make in your community, whether it's through volunteer work, mentorship, or other contributions. Discuss shared values and potential legacy-building opportunities.

Retirement planning is a collaborative effort that requires both partners to actively engage in discussions, share their dreams, and align their expectations. By working through this question exercise, spouses living abroad can lay the groundwork for a fulfilling and harmonious retirement, ensuring that this exciting chapter is a shared adventure built on mutual understanding and agreement.

Setting Sail into 2024: Achieving Your Goal of Living Abroad

Hey Dreamers and Adventurers,

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the allure of living abroad beckons to many of us. The prospect of embracing new cultures, forging international connections, and creating a tapestry of memories in foreign lands is undeniably exciting. If your 2024 resolution involves the dream of living abroad, this blog post is your compass. Let's embark on this journey together, exploring questions to guide you in setting meaningful goals for the upcoming year.

1. What's Your Motivation?

Begin by understanding the driving force behind your desire to live abroad. Is it a thirst for adventure, a career opportunity, cultural exploration, or perhaps a desire for personal growth? Clarifying your motivation will serve as the foundation for setting specific and meaningful goals.

2. Where in the World?

The world is vast and diverse, offering a myriad of possibilities. Consider which countries or regions align with your goals, preferences, and aspirations. Whether it's the bustling streets of Tokyo, the romantic allure of Paris, or the tranquil landscapes of New Zealand, pinpointing your ideal destination is a pivotal step.

3. What Experience Are You Seeking?

Living abroad can encompass various experiences—from studying in a new country to pursuing a career opportunity, or even embarking on a sabbatical for self-discovery. Define the type of experience you're seeking to tailor your goals accordingly.

4. Financial Planning:

Finances play a crucial role in making the dream of living abroad a reality. Assess your current financial situation and outline a budget for your international adventure. Consider factors such as accommodation costs, daily living expenses, and potential sources of income.

5. Language Proficiency:

Whether you're moving to a country where English is widely spoken or diving into a new language entirely, language proficiency is a key factor. Evaluate your language skills and set achievable goals for improvement before and during your time abroad.

6. Cultural Integration:

Living abroad isn't just about the physical relocation; it's about immersing yourself in a new culture. Ask yourself how you plan to integrate into the local community, understand cultural nuances, and build meaningful connections with residents.

7. Career Goals:

If your move is tied to career aspirations, outline your professional goals. Are you seeking a new job, aiming for career advancement, or planning to launch your own venture? Align your career goals with the opportunities available in your chosen destination.

8. Personal Development:

Living abroad is a profound journey of personal growth. Consider the skills, qualities, or aspects of yourself you wish to develop during this adventure. Whether it's resilience, adaptability, or a new skill set, make personal development a cornerstone of your goals.

9. Health and Well-being:

Prioritize your physical and mental well-being as you set your goals. Research healthcare options in your destination, plan for fitness activities, and establish routines that contribute to a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

10. Contingency Planning:

While dreaming big, it's essential to be prepared for the unexpected. Develop contingency plans for potential challenges, be it homesickness, unforeseen expenses, or changes in your original plan. Flexibility is key to a successful adventure abroad.

Setting goals to live abroad in 2024 is not just about planning a physical move; it's about crafting an enriching chapter of your life story. As you ponder these questions and set your goals, remember that the journey is as significant as the destination. Embrace the unknown, relish in the anticipation, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

Wishing you courage, excitement, and a world of possibilities in 2024!

10 Essential Questions to Ask Yourself Before Moving to a Foreign Country

Moving to a foreign country is an exciting and transformative experience that offers new perspectives, opportunities, and challenges. Whether you're relocating for work, study, or personal growth, careful consideration is essential to ensure a successful transition. Before you embark on this life-changing journey, take a moment to reflect on these ten crucial questions that will help you prepare for the adventure ahead.

1. Why Am I Moving?
   Understanding your motivation for moving is fundamental. Are you seeking professional advancement, education, or a change of scenery? Clarifying your reasons will guide your decision-making process and help you set clear goals for your time abroad.

2. What Are My Expectations?
   Reflect on your expectations for your new life abroad. What do you hope to achieve, and what challenges are you prepared to face? Setting realistic expectations will help you adapt more easily to the realities of your new environment.

3. Am I Willing to Embrace Change?
   Moving to a foreign country involves stepping out of your comfort zone. Are you open to adapting to new customs, languages, and ways of life? Embracing change is essential for personal growth and a successful integration.

4. What Do I Know About the Culture?
   Familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and social norms. Learning about the country's traditions and etiquette will not only help you navigate your new environment but also foster respect and understanding among locals.

5. How Will I Communicate?
   Language barriers can be a significant challenge. Consider your language skills and whether you need to learn the local language. Even basic phrases can go a long way in facilitating communication and building relationships.

6. What Are the Practicalities?
   Research the practical aspects of living in your new country. This includes visa requirements, healthcare, housing, and cost of living. Being well-prepared will ease your transition and prevent any unexpected surprises.

7. How Will I Maintain Connections?
   Leaving behind family and friends can be emotional. Reflect on how you'll stay connected with loved ones back home and build a support network in your new country. Utilize technology, social media, and local expat communities to bridge the gap.

8. What Are My Career Goals?
   If you're moving for work, consider how this move aligns with your career aspirations. Will this experience enhance your skills and broaden your professional horizons? Assess the opportunities for growth and development in your new environment.

9. How Will I Stay Healthy?
   Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Research healthcare services, insurance options, and wellness resources available in your new country. Taking care of yourself is vital for a successful and fulfilling experience.

10. What Is My Exit Strategy/Long-Term Goal? While your focus may be on the present, it's important to consider the future as well. What are your plans if circumstances change or if you decide to return to your home country? Having an exit strategy in mind will give you a sense of security and preparedness.

Moving to a foreign country is an adventure that offers invaluable experiences and personal growth. By asking yourself these ten essential questions, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that await you. Remember that every journey is unique, and thorough self-reflection will guide you towards making informed decisions and creating lasting memories in your new home. Enjoy it!

Your Personality and Your New Culture

The five main personality traits, collectively known as the Big Five or Five Factor Model, offer a comprehensive framework for understanding the diverse dimensions of human personality. They are Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism (Emotional Stability).

Openness to Experience reflects an individual's receptivity to new ideas and their propensity to explore the unknown. Conscientiousness emphasizes traits such as organization, responsibility, and self-discipline, shaping an individual's approach to tasks and goals. Extraversion captures one's preference for social interactions, highlighting their energy and enthusiasm in group settings. Agreeableness delves into a person's inclination towards cooperation, empathy, and harmonious relationships. Lastly, Neuroticism, often referred to as Emotional Stability, gauges an individual's emotional resilience and the extent to which they experience anxiety or mood fluctuations. These five traits interplay to shape our personalities and influence our behaviors, thoughts, and interactions in various contexts.

Below is a description of what it means to be low versus high in each of the five personality traits. The descriptive words will help you identify which traits resonate most closely with your personality. Following this is a table of preferred situations and action items that might work for you.

1. Low Openness to Experience: Individuals low in openness tend to prefer familiar routines and established ways of doing things. They may be described as practical, traditional, and conservative.

2. High Openness to Experience: People high in openness embrace novelty and enjoy exploring new concepts and ideas. They are often seen as imaginative, unconventional, and curious.

3. Low Conscientiousness: Low conscientiousness is associated with a more relaxed, spontaneous approach to life. Individuals with low conscientiousness might be seen as carefree, flexible, and less focused on structure.

4. High Conscientiousness: High conscientiousness individuals value organization, planning, and structure in their lives. They are often seen as responsible, disciplined, and detail-oriented.

5. Low Extraversion: Low extraversion indicates a preference for solitude or one-on-one interactions over large social gatherings. Those low in extraversion might be described as reserved, introspective, and quiet.

6. High Extraversion: People high in extraversion thrive in social settings, enjoying interactions with others and seeking out group activities. They are often described as outgoing, energetic, and enthusiastic.

7. Low Agreeableness: Low agreeableness individuals prioritize their own needs and opinions over others, and may appear more assertive or competitive. They might be seen as direct, self-reliant, and outspoken.

8. High Agreeableness: High agreeableness individuals value harmony and cooperation, often putting others' needs before their own. They are typically described as friendly, empathetic, and helpful.

9. Low Emotional Stability (Neuroticism): A lower Emotional stability may mean that you experience the ups and downs with more nuance. People who score higher on this trait, conversely, can sometimes come across as a bit detached or dispassionate. This is especially true if they also score low on Agreeableness and/or Openness. They are typically described as reflective, sensitive, empathetic, reactive, prone to mood fluctuations.

10. High Emotional Stability: People high in emotional stability exhibit strong emotional resilience and stability, experiencing fewer mood swings or emotional fluctuations. They are often described as composed, level-headed, and emotionally steady.

Personality and Action Items

Personality Trait	Preferred Situations	Actions Items in the Next Week	General Preferred Actions while Abroad
Low Openness to Experience	Familiar routines and environments. Predictable and structured activities.	Stick to familiar activities and routines. (e.g., visit a local cafe you know well).	Explore places or activities that align with your known interests. (e.g., visit a chain restaurant from your home country).
High Openness to Experience	Unconventional events and settings. Artistic and intellectual gatherings.	Attend an art exhibition or try a new cuisine. (e.g., visit a gallery showcasing local artists).	Engage in activities that challenge your perspective. (e.g., attend a traditional dance performance).
Low Conscientiousness	Unstructured social gatherings. Spontaneous outings with minimal planning.	Attend an unplanned meetup or join a group on a whim. (e.g., go to a local park gathering).	Embrace spontaneity and adapt to changing plans. (e.g., decide to explore a new area without a set agenda).
High Conscientiousness	Organized workshops and seminars. Well-structured events with clear agendas.	Plan your week's schedule and stick to it. (e.g., set aside time for sightseeing, learning, and relaxation).	Research and prepare a detailed itinerary for your trip. (e.g., plan each day's activities and transportation).
Low Extraversion	Quiet, solitary settings. One-on-one conversations with familiar individuals.	Spend quality time with a close friend or family member. (e.g., have a quiet dinner together).	Focus on personal reflection and journaling about your experiences.
High Extraversion	Crowded social gatherings and parties. Interactive group activities and games.	Attend a local event or party with a group of strangers. (e.g., go to a festival).	Seek out group activities and events to meet new people. (e.g., join a local sports team or club).
Low Agreeableness	Independent activities without collaboration. Pursuits focused on personal goals.	Engage in a solo adventure or explore on your own. (e.g., take a hike by yourself).	Focus on personal growth and development.
High Agreeableness	Volunteering events and group activities. Collaborative projects with others.	Participate in a local community service event. (e.g., volunteer at a local shelter).	Build connections by assisting others and participating in group activities. (e.g., join a community cleanup event).
Low Emotional Stability (Neuroticism)	Calming environments for relaxation. Solo moments for self-reflection.	Engage in meditation or a calming activity to reduce stress. (e.g., practice yoga).	Seek out peaceful natural settings to unwind and find balance.
High Emotional Stability	Social gatherings and interactions. Events fostering connection and camaraderie.	Attend a social event or meetup to connect with others. (e.g., join a language exchange meetup).	Focus on building a support network and forming meaningful relationships.

Identifying your personality type and situations/actions which align to you is a great way to set yourself up for success in a foreign country! Best of luck out there!

Bridging Cultures: Making Friends as a Foreigner in a New Country

Stepping into a new country is an exciting adventure that offers the opportunity to explore different cultures, languages, and ways of life. However, the journey becomes truly enriching when you connect with locals and fellow expatriates on a personal level. Making friends in a foreign country can be a fulfilling experience that provides a support system, broadens your horizons, and enhances your overall stay. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips for you to navigate the path of building meaningful friendships in your new home.

Embrace Openness and Curiosity

The foundation of making friends in a new country lies in having an open mind, a curious spirit, and potentially also an action plan. Be receptive to new experiences, viewpoints, and cultural practices. Approach interactions with genuine interest, asking questions about local customs, traditions, and interests. People are often eager to share their culture, and your curiosity can serve as a bridge to meaningful connections.

Learn the Local Language

Language is a powerful tool that can break down barriers and open doors to friendships. Even if you're not fluent, making an effort to learn basic phrases and greetings can go a long way. Having a few words can also make you feel much more at home. Even 50-100 words is a lot! Learn 10 words each day for a week, enroll in language classes or use language learning apps to improve your skills. Speaking the local language shows respect for the culture and demonstrates your willingness to engage with the community.

Participate in Cultural Events and Activities

Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending events, festivals, and activities. Whether it's a cooking class, dance workshop, or a cultural fair, these gatherings provide a natural setting to meet people who share similar interests. Engaging in activities aligned with your hobbies can lead to organic connections and conversations. It also just a fun way to spend a day!

Join Clubs and Social Groups

Joining clubs or social groups that match your interests is an excellent way to meet like-minded individuals. Whether it's a sports team, book club, or art workshop, these environments foster connections based on shared passions. Engaging in group activities provides common ground for conversation and can lead to deeper friendships over time. See other blog posts by us on looking for activities which match your personality type.

Use Social Media and Expat Platforms

In today's digital age, social media and expatriate platforms are invaluable tools for making friends in a new country. Join online forums, expat groups, and local community pages to connect with people who are also seeking friendships. These platforms offer opportunities to attend meetups, share experiences, and seek advice from fellow foreigners.

Attend Networking Events

Networking events aren't just for professional purposes; they can also be a gateway to forming social connections. Attend local business mixers, seminars, or workshops to meet a diverse range of people. These events provide a comfortable environment for starting conversations and building relationships with individuals from various backgrounds. Offer to bring a friend along too!

Volunteer and Give Back

Engaging in volunteer work not only benefits the community but also helps you connect with locals who share a sense of altruism. Whether it's participating in a beach cleanup, volunteering at a local shelter, or teaching skills to underprivileged individuals, these activities foster connections built on shared values and the desire to make a positive impact.

Be Approachable and Friendly

Approachability goes a long way in making friends. Smile, maintain eye contact, and offer a friendly greeting to those you meet. Small gestures like initiating a conversation, complimenting someone's outfit, or sharing a simple laugh can break the ice and create a comfortable atmosphere for interactions. If you are shy, this can be a difficult one to get good at, I know! In this case, practice makes perfect. Plan out a few topics which you can talk about with most people.

Invite Others for Shared Experiences

Initiating plans and inviting others for shared experiences can help solidify budding friendships. Whether it's a coffee date, a movie night, or a hike, extending an invitation shows that you're interested in spending time together and building a deeper connection.

Patience and Persistence

Making friends in a new country takes time, so practice patience and persistence. Not every interaction will result in a lifelong friendship, but each conversation contributes to your cultural understanding and personal growth. Keep putting yourself out there, and over time, you'll find individuals who resonate with your personality and interests.

Questions and Potential Actions

	Questions to Ask Yourself	Potential Actions to Take
Embrace Openness and Curiosity	Am I open to learning about my new culture and new perspectives? How can I show genuine interest in the local culture?	Attend cultural events and festivals. Engage in conversations with locals about their traditions and customs.
Learn the Local Language	How confident am I in using the local language? What language learning resources are available to me?	Enroll in language classes or use language learning apps (e.g., iTalki, Duolingo, Busuu). Practice basic phrases and greetings in the local language.
Participate in Cultural Events and Activities	What are my hobbies and interests? How can I find local events related to my interests?	Attend workshops, classes, and gatherings that align with your passions. Engage in conversations with participants to expand your social circle.
Join Clubs and Social Groups	What are some clubs or groups I would enjoy being a part of? How can I find information about local clubs?	Research and join clubs or groups based on your interests. Attend regular meetings and actively engage with other members.
Use Social Media and Expat Platforms	Are there any online platforms for expats in my new country? How can I reach out to other expats?	Join expat forums, Facebook groups, and community pages. Participate in in-person and virtual meetups and events organized by these platforms.
Attend Networking Events	Are there any networking events or seminars happening in my area? What topics or industries interest me for networking purposes?	Look for networking events in your city or region. Prepare a brief introduction about yourself and your background to use during conversations.
Volunteer and Give Back	How can I contribute to the local community through volunteering? Which causes or organizations align with my values?	Research local volunteer opportunities and organizations. Choose a cause that resonates with you and dedicate time to volunteering.
Be Approachable and Friendly	How can I display approachability through body language and behavior? Am I open to initiating conversations with strangers?	Practice maintaining eye contact and smiling in social interactions. Initiate conversations with simple greetings or compliments.
Invite Others for Shared Experiences	How can I take the initiative to plan social activities? Which individuals have I connected well with and would like to spend more time with?	Suggest activities or events to potential friends based on shared interests. Extend invitations for coffee, meals, outings, or other shared experiences.
Patience and Persistence	Am I prepared for the journey of building friendships over time? How can I manage expectations in the process of making friends?	Understand that forming meaningful friendships takes time. Consider making an actionable plan. Embrace the process and keep putting yourself out there, even if not every interaction leads to a close bond.

Making friends as a foreigner in a new country is a journey that requires effort, open-mindedness, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. It can be tough, but also very very rewarding. By embracing cultural differences, learning the local language, participating in activities, and fostering genuine connections, you can build a network of friends that enrich your experience and provide a sense of belonging. Remember that friendships take time to develop, so be patient, keep an open heart, and enjoy the rewarding process of forming connections that span across borders and cultures.