What is the best definition of friendship? In all cultures, friendships are important relationships throughout a person's life span.
As an expat, living abroad is a really thrilling and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging and lonely. Being far away from family and friends can be especially difficult, as it might make you feel isolated and homesick. That's why having a social life in your new place is crucial. Here are some good reasons to create your new family cocoon in your host country…
Combatting loneliness and isolation
Moving to a new country can be daunting, and the process of settling in might be overwhelming. One of the main challenges that expats face is feeling lonely and isolated. However, making friends can help to combat these feelings. When you have friends, you have someone to talk to, share experiences with, and explore your new environment. This can make a huge difference in how you feel about your new home and can make the process of settling in much easier. So go out after work, subscribe to community groups, and have a chat with mums at the nursery or school: these are the best as a first start!
Creating a support system
Living abroad can be challenging, and there may be times when you need help or support. Having friends can provide you with a support system that you can rely on when you need it most. Whether you need advice, a listening ear, or someone to help you out in an emergency, your friends are there for you. They will also help you navigate your new environment, introduce you to new people, and show you the ropes.
Sharing experiences
One of the best things about living abroad is the opportunity to experience new cultures and ways of life. Having friends from another nationality makes this experience even more enjoyable as you share your own traditions and culture. Having friends who are also expats is particularly helpful as you can share your experiences of adapting to a new culture and learn from each other. And just like that, you are invited around a table with 6 different nationalities: this is the magic of connecting and sharing!
Building a sense of community
Living in a new country can be a challenge, but it can also be an opportunity to build a sense of community. By making friends, you can create a network of people who share similar experiences and interests. This can help you feel more connected to your new home and create a sense of belonging. Having a sense of community can also make it easier to settle in and feel at home in a new country: when you got this feeling, that means you are on the right track!
Creating lasting friendships
Finally, making friends when living abroad can lead to lasting friendships. When you are far from your family and friends back home, having close friendships is so important. These friendships also provide a connection to your new home and make it easier to return and visit in the future. And just like that, those friends become like a second family, and the bonds that you create can last a lifetime…
So if you are living abroad, feeling lonely or isolated, take the initiative to reach out and make connections and friends. You never know where it may lead…