THE PRESSURE OF ‘MAKING IT’ ABROAD.
As an expat or overseas worker, there’s this unspoken rule that you have to ‘make it, right? You’ve leapt to live or work abroad, so now you feel the pressure to prove that you can thrive in this new environment. The mindset of "I must not fail" can be a powerful motivator, but at what cost?
The Fragile Balancing Act
The problem with this drive to succeed is that it can slowly chip away at the good things in your life. It can strain your relationships, add stress to your work, and take a toll on your mental health—especially when you’re navigating the unfamiliar waters of a new country.
Think about it: you might find yourself pushing through tasks faster than ever, but at the same time, you feel like you can’t catch your breath. Or maybe you’re stuck on projects that drag on forever, leaving you wondering why everything feels so difficult and uninspiring. When the excitement and joy of your work fade, it’s like hitting a wall. The fun is gone, and everything just feels like work.
The Trap of Independence
Despite feeling stuck, many of us hesitate to ask for help. Why? Because asking for support can feel like admitting defeat. You’ve always prided yourself on being independent, handling things on your own, and staying capable. So the idea of reaching out might make you feel like you're letting yourself—or someone else—down.
But here’s the truth: we all need help sometimes, and it doesn’t mean you’re failing. Recognizing when you need support is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, especially when you’re living and working in a foreign country.
When It’s Time to Ask for Help
If you’re starting to feel unproductive, caught in a cycle of mood swings, or just indifferent to things that used to excite you, that’s a big red flag. It’s not about being strong enough to keep going—it’s about being smart enough to pause and ask yourself, where can I get help?
Whether it’s talking to someone who understands the unique stress of expat life or finding ways to manage your mental health more effectively, reaching out for support is the first step in getting back on track. There’s no shame in it—only growth.
Take Back Control
At the end of the day, living abroad is supposed to be an adventure, not a constant struggle. So if you’re feeling stuck in the pressure to “make it,” it’s time to take a step back and give yourself the care and support you need.
By recognizing when things aren’t working and asking for help, you can start feeling like yourself again and move forward with a renewed sense of balance and purpose.