Living Abroad
“Being an expat means feeling at home in two places—and sometimes in neither”
Living abroad
Living in France, like living abroad anywhere, involves navigating loneliness, uncertainty, and stress.
It may be far from the idealized vision of expat life, but these struggles are a shared reality for all expats, in one form or another.
Acknowledging them as normal can bring clarity and comfort to the emotional journey.
Fases de la expatriación
1. Honeymoon phase
At first, there’s discovery and wonder. The expat’s contact with the culture is only surface-level, and the focus is on the positive aspects of the move. The destination unfolds gradually, leaving room for imagination and dreams
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2. Cultural shock
This stage brings unease and confusion. While adapting to daily and professional life, the expat confronts the deep differences between their original culture and the new environment. Doubts arise about fitting in, and even minor issues can feel overwhelming and frustrating.
3. Adjustment
The expat reaches a stage where they begin to decode and embrace the behaviors and attitudes of the host country. Changes brought by expatriation are gradually accepted, and their own behavior adapts. There’s a growing openness to the culture, and an effort to live more like the locals do.
4. Assimilation
After a shorter or longer adjustment period, the expat acclimates to their new life. They feel comfortable and gain confidence in themselves and their abilities. They navigate their new environment effortlessly, sometimes even forgetting they’re not in their home country.
