With the ever-increasing rate of moves and relocations across the globe, it might seem like an easier option for some or more challenging to others.
According to the World Migration Report (2022 edition), the current global estimate is that 3.6% of the global population are living in countries other than their countries of birth, which is estimated to be 281 million international migrants.
Whichever way, 3 things you need to think through before taking the decision to make that move:
Start with the end in mind, what are your intentions with this plan?
In the long run, what do you visualize for yourself with this move? (Apart from the mirage of Insta-worthy photos of you in that leather jacket standing by your car in the snow?!)
Are you looking to build a career abroad? Or is your main reason to raise the kids with good education opportunities?
What does this country offer in the long run such as right to work/stay, citizenship opportunities or top-notch health insurance?
Who are the key ‘stakeholders’ in this – in what way will this move affect the important people in your life?
What impact will your move have on your children or spouse if they will or will not be travelling with you?
There are also elderly parents to consider who will need a change in their caregiving options or additional support.
Some people have to put in place more sustainable staff structures to ensure their teams are well-managed in their absence. Others may have to outrightly close their existing business in their bid to migrate.
Are the ‘barriers to entry or stay’ worth it?
Some countries require international visitors or migrants to invest a significant amount of time to learn a totally new language before they can study or practice.
Other considerations include weighing the cost of living, status of job market, travel accessibility, adverse or extreme weather conditions, exchange rates if income is coming from your home country and again the benefits offered after study.
Of course, we should actually lead this discussion with questions like ‘Where am I going in the first place’, ‘why this location’ and ‘what am I really planning to achieve by going there?
I remember having a conversation with a family who approached me after a speaking session a few years to ask about my experiences living abroad while our children were schooling there. They had made a prior decision for their first son to school in some hard-to-pronounce Eastern European city which they were still struggling to see the full benefits in the long run, apart from the low cost of living.
With these few points of mine….. I hope this has given you a bit more to ponder on while making this life changing decision.
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My name is Emem, I’m a Creative Breakthrough coach and Learning Development consultant- what’s your superpower?
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EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
