7 Reasons Why You’ve Never Realized Your Move Abroad Dreams Many Years Later

7 things that might be holding you back and preventing you from realizing your move abroad dreams.

7 reasons why you haven’t successfully moved abroad despite several years of planning to move abroad.

In our pursuit of a life abroad, it’s disheartening when the dream seems elusive, despite years of anticipation.

It is not uncommon for the dream to remain just out of reach, even after years of anticipation.

The journey is often hindered by seven common barriers that, when addressed head-on, can propel you toward realizing your dream of living abroad.

Here are seven pockets of resistance that might be hindering your progress:

1. Phases of Non-Permanent Satisfaction

Finding comfort in temporary contentment can create a cycle of complacency, preventing the necessary steps for a permanent move.

• Example: Staying in a job that brings short-term joy but lacks long-term fulfillment or settling for short-term job satisfaction in your home country.
• Alternative: Seek a career that aligns with your passion and long-term goals, even if it requires initial sacrifices or pursue a career with international prospects, aligning with long-term goals of living abroad.

2. Doing Exactly What Everyone is Doing

Following the crowd might provide a sense of security, but it can also lead to missed opportunities. Dare to carve your unique path.

• Example: Choosing a popular career path because it’s considered prestigious, without personal interest or opting for popular same old same old destinations abroad without considering your personal circumstances, job prospects, etc.
• Alternative: Pursue a profession that resonates with your skills and passions, even if it’s unconventional. And also explore non-conventional destinations that resonate with your personal circumstances, lifestyle and aspirations, breaking away from the common path.

3. Risk Avoidance

Fear of the unknown can be paralyzing. Embrace calculated risks, as they often open doors to new possibilities.

• Example: Avoiding job opportunities abroad due to fear of leaving the familiar behind, fear of unknown challenges in a new industry (e.g. cruise ship) leading to hesitation.
• Alternative: Embrace calculated risks, recognizing that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Embrace the uncertainties, acknowledging that the risk of stagnation outweighs the risks of the unknown.

4. Not Willing to Learn, Relearn, and Unlearn

The ever-changing landscape of life demands adaptability. Refusing to acquire new skills or shed outdated beliefs can be a major stumbling block.

• Example: Resisting to acquire new language skills necessary for living in a different country or essential for seamless integration.
• Alternative: Enroll in language courses and be open to continuous learning, demonstrating a commitment to adapting to the cultural nuances of your chosen destination.

5. Mindset Matters

A fixed mindset can limit your potential. Cultivate a growth mindset, embracing challenges and seeing failures as stepping stones.

• Example: Believing that moving abroad is an unattainable goal because of self-imposed limitations.
• Alternative: Cultivate a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities for development and believing in your ability to overcome obstacles. Cultivate a global mindset, acknowledging challenges as stepping stones towards a richer life abroad.

6. Ignorance of Opportunities

Failing to explore and understand the various opportunities available might keep you unaware of potential pathways to your dream destination.

• Example: Overlooking visa options, scholarships, or networking events or conferences that could facilitate the move abroad.
• Alternative: Actively research and stay informed about opportunities, attend networking and recruitment events and connecting with individuals who have successfully made the move. Actively research immigration policies, seek out scholarship opportunities, and engage in trusted Telegram/WhatsApp/Facebook groups / communities to uncover hidden avenues. Watch Travel with EvaMtalii YouTube videos to the end.

7. Lack of Accountability

Taking ownership of your decisions is crucial. Blaming external factors rather than holding yourself accountable can hinder progress.

• Example: Blaming external factors (e.g., economic conditions) for not making progress or delayed plans.
• Alternative: Take responsibility for your decisions and actively work towards overcoming challenges, seeking solutions rather than excuses. Take ownership of your timeline, proactively addressing challenges, and forging ahead with your relocation plans.

Recognizing these barriers is the first step toward breaking free from the inertia that keeps you tethered to your current location.

By addressing these issues head-on, you can reignite the flame of your ambition and move closer to realizing your dream of living abroad.