Immigration is challenging, and although you have already taken a huge step by finding yourself in a new home, new work, and a new environment, finding happiness in the new place is the biggest challenge.
Making the decision to move away arose from an internal need for a change; a change for a new job opportunity, a new partner, a safer environment, etc.
We all have a different and unique story, but it always means a change to fulfill an expectation where we are supposed to live a better life.
So, how is my life now?
Moving away requires most of the time a lot of steps to leave your previous home, sell or give away things, fill out many forms, translate and prepare documentation, find a new place to live, equip it, say goodbye to many people you love, learn a new language… whew… and so much more.
So, there is a transition until you are all set up. And you understand everything is part of a process, so if sadness arises, you are not getting drawn away by it.
Then life in the new city or town is set up.
Your new home has everything you need.
You started learning the local language and local traditions.
Whatever reason for moving there was, it is underway too.
It may take some or a lot of time.
It may take some or a lot of resources.
Maybe you already have a couple of new friends, or maybe you feel very lonely and write to your family and friends back home some messages.
Let me share a glimpse of my journey with you. After 15 years in Lima I decided to move to Spain where my siblings live, but life had a different plan for me. Love found its way into my life, and together with my partner, we embarked on a new adventure. He, with his job in a Norwegian company, and me, a psychotherapist with a career that knows no boundaries.
Our search for a home led us to Horten, Norway, where we found a charming house by the sea, fulfilling our every expectation. I love our new home, we have a garden, I grow peruvian chillies, potatoes and other vegetables. We welcomed a beautiful baby into our lives.
Yet, amidst the serenity of our new life, there lingered moments of loneliness, especially during the long, cold winters. My heart ached for the vibrant social scene I left behind in Lima. But through perseverance and the power of connection, I found solace.
In Oslo, I found companionship through a Facebook group, and here in Horten, while studying Norwegian language, I forged new friendships. However, the winter often cast a shadow, making it challenging to maintain my social life. The icy streets and snow-covered landscapes posed obstacles to me and my stroller, leaving me longing for the warmth of familiar faces.
As a therapist, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of others, expatriates grappling with loneliness and a sense of purposelessness. It became clear that my journey held a purpose beyond my own fulfillment. Thus, I began to share my experiences and insights, offering workshops on inner management.
Through these workshops, we discover the joy that exists within us, irrespective of our surroundings. Together, we navigate the complexities of expatriate life, finding meaning and connection wherever we are.
I would love to know your story.
Please share with me: How does it feel in your new home?
Your experience is very important! Are you an expat in Norway?
You can answer the survey anonymously if you prefer.