Being an expat is certainly an adventure, but as I've posted before there are ups and downs to this life. Although I try to stay positive, I think no matter how long you've lived away from your "comfort zone" you still have your days when just getting out of bed can be a struggle. For me it's always getting dressed. That abaya covers so much it's very easy to be in pajamas all day
For anyone who's never been an expat it's hard to describe the emotional roller coaster that you go through on the adventure. First, you are cautious, doing all the research you can to find out about your new home. Then, the excitement sets in. Next, comes the frustration of waiting. Waiting while your family may be split for paperwork and movers, housing and anything else that comes your way. Then, the excitement again, finally every thing is in place and you are on your way.
The first few weeks are filled with happiness and relief, frustration and stress, sadness and a bit of loneliness trying to adjust to your new home. Friends and family are farther away, and let's face it, Saudi Arabia is not like any other place on earth. The culture here is very unique and there are many adjustments that anyone entering the country must make.
The key is finding a balance and not putting too much pressure on yourself to adjust too quickly. I was very bad at this. I tried so hard in the beginning to put my feelings aside and go with the flow. I had high expectations for myself to adjust quickly and easily. I think it's better to let yourself have your bad moments, let yourself cry for a bit, and then pick yourself up and focus on the good in your situation. Remember the benefits of being here and let the downfalls slide.
Keeping in touch with friends and family is so important. It's a break from the day and gives you a chance to vent, unwind and share your experiences (both good and bad) with others. I actually started this blog for our friends and family at home, so I could share our ride with them, without having to send emails and photos to every single person. I've now found that many are using it as a reference for themselves when making a decision to take their own adventure.
For those who are in the process or looking to start the process, the best advice I can give is go easy on yourself. Don't try and be perfect and certainly don't think that those of us who are knee deep in the weeds here don't have our moments also. We have days we cuss, we feel as though we're losing our mind and then we have days where we're up beat, loving life and smiling that big happy smile.
We all take the good with the bad and mix it up into one big adventure - that someday - we will look back on and smile, laugh and enjoy with family and friends, both new and old.
In May 2012 my husband came home with a proposal. Move to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia for a position. At first I was stunned, but having lived and worked as an ex-pat myself before meeting my husband, I though that it may be worth looking into.
I quite my job, am now a stay-at-home mom and we live in Yanbu Industrial City in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The process has been interesting and we are learning more and more everyday. But I have a feeling this is only the beginning of our adventure!
Content Disclaimer: Please note that the information, content and editorial on this blog, including all articles and photos are my opinion only and are not affiliated with any corporation or organization. It is respectfully offered with the hope and intention of informing the reader and offering a woman's perspective of life abroad.