BONUS 024 – How to Integrate as an Expat

Today, I want to talk to all the expats listening – people like me.

I’m a Texan, born and bred, now living in the UK. Let’s talk about how to integrate as an expat.

Where is your home when you’re an expat?

It all comes down to the fact that humans need love and community. A sense of belonging. “Welcome Home” is a Burning Man mantra… but it applies everywhere you go.

Being an insider vs outsider?

I joke that in England we speak the same language… but we DO NOT speak the same language, which gets a few laughs. But the truth is, I’m starting to realize that if I continue to perpetuate the story of us vs them, I’ll always have my ‘outsider’ glasses on when I see. There is no difference, we are all humans, trying to belong.

Find connection

Find your people. Whether it’s through a church, or a meetup group, or a local yoga studio. Try things out and see what feels right for you. Right now, for me, I’m finding it at1space in Nottingham.

Find your tribe, get connected, and give your soul what it craves the most.

And just one final whisper, just from me to you, dear friend… come in closer.

I know that it’s hard when you feel alone and you think that no one cares about you.

The truth is, the more you isolate, the more you’ll find it harder to connect with others and ultimately, with yourself.

Yes, even extroverts need alone time and yes, we all need time and space to recharge, reconnect and recalibrate by ourselves. But hear me out… nice people exist in your new city.

People that will enrich your life, with theirs.

All it takes is looking up from your phone. Sharing a kind smile with someone you pass by on your way to work. Slowing down and being brave to spark up a conversation.

Take the next step towards connection. And if you hit rejection along the way, remember, 9 times out of 10, it’s someone else dealing with their ISH and not about you. Keep going.

You’ll find your groove soon enough. Don’t give up.

You can do this, I believe in you.

It’s time to SIMPLIFY.

If this thought of the day inspired you…

Snap a photo of you doing the thing and send it to me via Instagram, privately or publicly… Just tag @thesimplifiers – I’ll be your virtual accountability buddy in your quest to simplify your life.

Big Thanks to…

Desiree, who wrote The Simplifiers this 5-star review:

“There are just so many things we business owners have to deal with on a regular basis. Some time, you just want it simple. Well, this podcast is here to save the day! Mary does an amazing and energetic job at making sure you have everything you need to run your life and business simpler. Such good content!”

Thank you Desiree for your kind words. We aim to simplify!

As always friends, keep things simple.

Watch the video version of this episode