4 expat problems and how to deal with them

Becoming an expat is as exciting as it is scary. It can go either way: be everything you’ve ever dreamed it would be or a nightmare that you can’t wake up from. How can you find out what it will be like for you? Only by trying, there is no other way.

 

Whether you’ve already been an established expat for years or you’re just flirting with the idea of moving abroad, you’ll be interested in the solutions to these 4 common expat problems that can come up along the way.

 

Problem: Missing your loved ones

This is probably problem #1, the first thing we think about when making the decision of starting a new life in a new country. Can we really do it without our family and friends? If you decide to go ahead with your plans, then you’re willing to try. But you soon realize this is no easy task…

Solution: Call them as often as possible

They say it is easier to leave than to be left behind, so it’s even harder for your loved ones to be without you. You are the one who should take the lead on sharing news, asking for and offering support. Make calling your family a priority to make sure you preserve the great relationship you have with them. Catching up, talking about your joys & challenges, or just small talk will make you feel closer to home.

Problem: The language barrier

This is also a tough one, because it can make adapting difficult for you. Not speaking the language of the country you’re in is like a wall between you and the outer world. But don’t worry, it’s a wall that you can break. 😉

Solution: Learn and practise every day

Take language classes before you move and continue them afterwards, until you reach the level you’re comfortable with. You can also spend time learning on your own. There are lots of language learning apps, websites, and books. The key is not to be afraid to jump in and use the little that you do know. Making mistakes is better than not trying at all.

 

Problem: Making new friends is difficult

Many expats complain about this, since they often befriend other expats, who in time may leave to a different country or move back home. Also, making friends is always hard when you’re the new guy, when you have no connections in your new city, and you’re not feeling very comfortable about your life at the moment.

Solution: Meet people like you

Find something you feel passionate about that involves other people and you’ll be able to enter a group that is brought together by a common hobby. It’s a pretty good recipe for making friends that are compatible with you! Whether it’s learning a new language, taking a class, or volunteering, you’ll meet interesting people who in turn will find you interesting.

Problem: Home is calling you

There comes a time in every expat’s life when they just feel it’s time to go home. Sometimes this is triggered by a milestone, such as the birth of a child or the illness of an ageing parent. At other times, you’ve simply had enough of the expat lifestyle and want to take it easy and settle down back home.

Solution: Listen to your heart

There is always a reason behind your desires. Perhaps you’re tired or bored with the challenges of being an expat, perhaps you just miss home too much. When stability seems to be beckoning you home, it is often wise to heed the call. Welcome this new phase in your life and see what opportunities it can bring.

 

While we can’t help you with the last 3 problems, we can certainly help you with the first one. With KeepCalling, you make the best calls home! You get the lowest rates for international calls and the highest quality.

 

You can also choose the calling option that is most suitable to your needs: access numbers that don’t require an Internet connection or the smartphone app (available for iOS and Android).