When you move to a new country, every day you are forced to conquer something new. Most of these things are mundane but it takes a lot of effort and courage to do them.
- Walking downtown without getting lost.
- Figuring out how the post office works.
- Making an appointment.
- Saying your first words in a new language.
- Taking public transport.
- Asking for help.
The simplest of things become obstacles and if you are like me, it's a bit stressful. I'm not the most outgoing person (shocking, I know because I air my life on the internet) and I really have to work myself up to these new experiences. I google it, map it, practise it over in my head, work up the courage and finally tackle it.
When I've succeeded, I feel so proud of myself and I know exactly what to do the next time. As time goes on, I conquer more and more of these little things and before I know it, I won't even be thinking about it anymore.
But until then...
I think it's important to celebrate these little milestones; pat myself on the back for stepping out there and doing something uncomfortable and different. After all, that's what living overseas is all about.
Well done! I'm the same way :)
ReplyDeleteI agree! I read a similar post recently-I thought it was yours...perhaps not. Meeting new friends abroad is another massive milestone!
ReplyDeleteCheers to you! I am the same way and get anxious and really stressed when I don't know how to do something. Like when I moved to NY and had to learn to navigate the subways- I think there were several times I would rather have cried than walked onto the wrong train platform again.
ReplyDeleteYES! For the longest time when I first moved to Canada, the money really freaked me out. I didn't want to seem like I didn't know what I was doing as I counted out loonies in lieu of dollar bills! Way to go, Jay!
ReplyDeleteI often even have a script!
ReplyDeleteha totally know what that's all about - I just had my first actual conversation in German and was beyond giddy. I love finding other expat bloggers so I'm glad I found my way to your blog (maybe through Across the Pond?). Anyway, I'm your newest follower and can't wait to read more adventures
ReplyDeleteThe first time a waiter speaks back to you in the native language instead of English is a big deal, too. Finally they begin to realize that you are not just another American tourist. It's a wonderful feeling!
ReplyDelete