Time's ticking! Are you maximizing your experience abroad?

The way we perceive time can significantly shape our actions, especially when living abroad. Through working with expats, I've understood that: it's not just the duration of our stay overseas, but how we perceive that time, that influences how much we gain from the experience.

Many expats on 3-4 year assignments often feel they haven’t fully embraced their time abroad. Just as they start to feel at home, explore the city, or find new job opportunities—particularly for trailing spouses—it’s already time to move again. They frequently wish they’d settled in sooner, rather than accepting the common notion that "the first year is always like this." That first year, after all, represents a third of their time abroad—time they can’t recover.

For immigrants, the perception of having "all" the time can lead to postponing important decisions, assuming there will always be a tomorrow. However, when they realize they're missing opportunities or might need to relocate, they begin to take action.

The Socioemotional Selectivity Theory (SST) provides valuable insights into how our perception of time influences our motivations. When expats and immigrants view their time in a new country as finite, they often prioritize emotional connections and meaningful relationships. This adjustment helps them concentrate on what is truly important, aligning their actions with their deepest aspirations. Recognizing this can be transformative. By embracing this understanding, both expats and immigrants can ensure their experiences abroad are aligned with their personal and professional objectives, making their journey truly fullfilling.

No matter your situation, remember: time abroad, like life, is finite. It’s a cycle.

So, how can you make the most of it? Begin by understanding your purpose for being there, envision what you want to achieve, and map out the path to the life you dreamed of when moving abroad. Don't wait. The sooner you begin to work towards your goals with intention, the more you'll maximize your experience abroad.

If you're ready to take the next step, Fernanda Ortega and I offer support through our Reinventing Yourself Abroad Individual Mentoring and Coaching Program. This is perfect for expats, trailing spouses, and immigrants who want to maximize their overseas experience and achieve their personal and professional goals. Reach out to us and let's work together to design your roadmap.