Living abroad is mos like playing a real-life version of Survivor—except instead of outrunning tigers, you’re dodging cultural faux pas, overpriced airport sandwiches, and unexpected paperwork from the gemeente. The experience is filled with moments that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. One minute, you’re embracing adventure with the enthusiasm of a Springbok fan at a rugby final, reveling in the thrill of exploring new cities, trying exotic foods, and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. You might find yourself wandering through vibrant markets, tasting local delicacies that you never knew existed, and feeling the rush of excitement that comes with each new experience. Yet, in stark contrast, the next moment, you’re Googling “why do I cry when I hear my mom’s voice note?” as the pangs of homesickness settle in, reminding you of the comforts and familiarity of home that you left behind. These emotional swings can be jarring, making you acutely aware of the delicate balance between adventure and longing.

So, my fellow expats, before you completely lose your kop trying to pronounce “gezellig” correctly, let’s talk about self-care—the only thing standing between you and a full-scale meltdown in the Albert Heijn cheese aisle. It’s crucial to carve out time for yourself amidst the chaos of adapting to a new culture. Whether it’s indulging in a quiet moment with a good book, taking long walks to explore your new surroundings, or even establishing a weekly video call with loved ones back home, prioritizing your mental health can make all the difference. Engage in activities that ground you and remind you of your identity, such as cooking your favorite meals from home or finding a local community that shares your interests. Remember, self-care isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity that can help you navigate the ups and downs of expat life, ensuring you emerge from this adventure not just as a survivor, but as a thriving, resilient individual.

1. Stay Connected with the Home Base 📞❤️

   Listen, WhatsApp wasn’t invented for nogal—it was made for expats sending voice notes that start with “Jislaaik, you won’t believe what just happened!” Stay in touch with your mense. Even a quick chat with your mom can make you feel like less of an alien in your new world.Bonus Tip: If homesickness kicks in, demand a family Zoom call where everyone complains about loadshedding just to make you feel better.

   
   

2. Establish a Routine (That Doesn’t Involve Just Crying & Coffee) ☕🛏️

   Moving abroad can feel like someone hit the reset button on your life. One minute you’re a fully functional adult, and the next, you’re trying to figure out how to work a European washing machine that requires an engineering degree. Maar, a simple routine—like morning coffee (extra strong to deal with Dutch weather) and an evening walk—can help you feel less like a lost chicken.

   
   

3. Get to Know the Local Culture (Without Getting Arrested) 🍷🥖🚴

   When you first move abroad, every day is like an episode of Nat Geo: Expat Edition. You’ll stare at food labels like they’re ancient hieroglyphics, try to figure out why locals eat raw fish on bread, and awkwardly nod when someone says something too fast. But lean into it! Learn some local phrases (even if it’s just how to say “more wine, please”), eat the weird food, and cycle like your lewe depends on it—because, in the Netherlands, it actually does.

   
   

4. Prioritize Physical Health (Yes, Even When Stroopwafels Exist) 🚴‍♂️💪

   Your body is still recovering from that one time you tried to carry four grocery bags on a bicycle. Don’t let expat stress turn you into a potato—get moving! Whether it’s gym, yoga, or just running for the train you almost missed (again), exercise keeps the expat blues at bay. Pro Tip: If you’re South African, just call cycling your “leg day” and pretend it’s the same as hiking up Table Mountain.

   
   

5. Practice Mindfulness (or Just Try Not to Panic in Dutch Bureaucracy) 🧘‍♀️

   Being an expat means you’ll spend an alarming amount of time in long government queues questioning your life choices. Instead of vrekking from frustration, embrace mindfulness. Deep breathing works wonders—especially when the tax office tells you that one form you forgot means you have to start over.

   
   

6. Find a Support Network (Because Not All Heroes Wear Capes, Some Just Bring Biltong) 🤗🇿🇦

   Expats stick together like a badly translated Afrikaans-English menu. Find your people. Join an expat group, start a WhatsApp chat with fellow foreigners, or make friends with that one ou at work who understands your struggle.Bonus: If you find another South African, immediately bond over your shared love of Woolies food and mutual distrust of Dutch mayonnaise.

   
   

7. Take Time for Yourself (No, Scrolling Instagram Doesn’t Count) 📚🚶‍♂️

   Living abroad is hectic, and some days you’ll feel like a Sims character with no energy left. Find something that makes you happy—whether it’s binge-watching old SA soapies (7de Laan reruns, anyone?), reading, or walking around town pretending you’re in a travel documentary.

   
   

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed (Because Expats Have Feelings Too, Bru) 🧠💬

   Look, no shame here—living abroad can doos with your mental health. If you’re feeling more dowwe than usual, speak to someone. Expats get burnout too, and pretending you’re fine while eating three packs of stroopwafels in one sitting is not a long-term solution.

   
   

9. Set Realistic Expectations (You’re Not Instantly Going to Be an Influencer in Paris) 🏡✈️

   Adjusting takes time. No one wakes up fluent in Dutch or suddenly understands how train systems work. Be kind to yourself. If you manage to order a coffee in the local language without switching to English, celebrate like you won the Lotto. It’s the small victories, my friend.

   
   

10. Practice Gratitude (Even for the Weird Stuff) 🌍✨

    Yes, life abroad is full of struggles (like realizing bread here goes stale unreasonably fast), but it’s also full of cool moments. You’re living an adventure. Whether it’s discovering a hidden café, making a new friend, or finally understanding what the heck “gezellig” means—appreciate the little things.

Final Thoughts: Thriving, One Mishap at a Time

Being an expat is basically just organized chaos, and some days it will feel like life is pranking you. But with a bit of humor, patience, and baie self-care, you’ll thrive.

Now tell me—what’s your most hilariously tragic expat moment so far? Let’s laugh together, bru.

#ExpatLife #LekkerChaos #ThrivingAbroad #BiltongAndBureaucracy 🚀🌍