Navigating Life Overseas: Learnings from a Decade Abroad

Picture me, ten years ago, a wide-eyed adventurer lugging five oversized suitcases through the bustling chaos of Beijing airport. That was me, setting off on a journey that would forever alter the course of my life. Little did I know, as I boarded that plane bound for Barcelona to pursue an MBA, the whirlwind of experiences, challenges, and growth that awaited me.

Success:

From that pivotal moment in the airport, my journey has been a tapestry woven with threads of success and triumph:

Elite MBA Pursuit:

The decision to pursue an elite MBA in Barcelona was my first leap of faith into the unknown. It was a challenging endeavor, but one that set the stage for a transformative career journey. The two years spent immersed in academia were among the most enriching of my life. Beyond honing my business acumen, I drastically improved my English language skills and fostered lifelong friendships with talented individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Diverse Leadership Experiences:

My path led me from the vibrant streets of Berlin to the cozy corners of Cologne, where I embraced diverse leadership roles across various industries. It was a journey of self-discovery, as I navigated through different roles and responsibilities, eventually finding my passion in product management.

Wellness Pursuits:

Amidst the hustle and bustle of corporate life, I found solace in wellness activities. I delved into freediving, meditation, and yoga, discovering new dimensions of self-awareness and balance along the way.

Overcoming Burnout:

Despite the highs, there were moments of profound lows. I grappled with burnout feeling like I had hit rock bottom. Yet, from the depths of despair, I found resilience and recovery. It was a journey of self-reflection, healing, and rediscovery.

Freediving Transformation:

Getting into freediving stands out as a defining moment in my journey. Initially, I was terrified of water, but I pushed myself to confront this fear. Through dedicated practice and training, I not only overcame my fear but also transformed into an athlete.

Freediving had a profound healing power, allowing me to look inwards and develop deeper self-awareness and self-acceptance. It taught me discipline, focus, and the incredible capacity of the human body and mind. This passion reshaped my life, providing a sense of accomplishment and serenity beneath the blue.

Cultivating Connections:

Along the way, I forged deep connections with individuals from all walks of life. These friendships became pillars of support, providing comfort, guidance, and companionship through life's twists and turns.

Obstacles:

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were moments of failure and adversity that tested my resolve:

Toxic Relationships:

I found myself ensnared in toxic relationships that eroded my sense of self-worth and left me feeling adrift. It was a painful lesson in setting boundaries and healing from my past traumas.

Workplace Challenges:

Confronted with workplace bullies, discriminations, and inequality, I grappled with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. It was a period of darkness and uncertainty, where the future seemed bleak and daunting.

Family Crisis: 

My mom fell ill, and as the sole child, I was torn between living my life and fulfilling my responsibilities as a daughter. Balancing personal aspirations with familial duties presented a constant crisis that tested my emotional resilience and decision-making.

Lessons Learned and Insights:

Through it all, I've gleaned invaluable lessons that have reshaped my perspective on life:

👂 Listen to Your Body and Intuition:

I've learned to trust my instincts and prioritize self-care, even when the world feels overwhelming. Listening to my body's cues and honoring my intuition has been crucial in navigating life's ups and downs.

⚡ Embrace Change and Take Risks:

Growth often requires stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing uncertainty. It's in those moments of discomfort that we discover our true strength and resilience.

🫶🏼 Cultivate Healthy Relationships:

Surrounding myself with supportive and nurturing relationships has been essential for my well-being. Learning to set boundaries and prioritize authentic connections has been a journey of self-discovery and growth.

🪴 Connect with Your Roots:

Amidst the whirlwind of change and adaptation, I've learned the importance of staying grounded in my roots. Reconnecting with my Chinese heritage has been a source of strength and identity, reminding me of who I am and where I come from.

🙏🏼 Be Grateful:

Even when I hit rock bottom, I make it a point to give gratitude to those who support me and to myself for persevering. Gratitude transforms my perspective, providing emotional strength during tough times.

🤝 Find Resources and Support:

Living abroad presents its share of challenges, from cultural clashes to navigating unfamiliar territories. I've learned the importance of seeking support and resources, whether it's through local communities, mentors, or professional services.

What I Would Do Differently:

Looking ahead, there are certainly things I would do differently if given the chance:

🌐 Prioritize Language Learning:

I would invest more time in learning the local language, recognizing its importance in fostering deeper connections and cultural understanding.

🇿 Challenge Comfort Zones:

Stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences would be a priority. Growth often lies beyond the boundaries of familiarity, and I would strive to push past my fears and limitations.

✨ Practice Self-Kindness:

Cultivating self-compassion and kindness during times of adversity is essential for maintaining well-being and perspective. Learning to be gentle with myself and others is an ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery.

Looking Ahead:

As I gaze into the horizon of the next decade, I envision a future filled with possibility, purpose, and connection:

• Seaside Serenity: I dream of settling by the seaside, surrounded by nature's beauty and tranquility. It's a vision of serenity and peace, a sanctuary where I can find solace and inspiration.

• Family and Community: Building a life with my loved ones, fostering connections, and making a positive impact in my community are at the heart of my aspirations. It's a vision of shared experiences, laughter, and love, a tapestry woven with the threads of connection and belonging.

• Continued Growth: Whether as a coach, leader, or friend, I aspire to embody courage, authenticity, and fulfillment in all aspects of my life. It's a journey of growth and self-discovery, an ever-evolving exploration of what it means to be truly alive.

My wish:

Through this blog post, I aim to share my experience as a foreigner living in Europe, navigating the ups and downs of life abroad. My hope is that my story will inspire others who may be facing similar challenges or contemplating similar journeys. If you ever find yourself in need of support or simply wish to connect, know that my door is always open.

This article only captures just a glimpse of my ten-year journey, but it's a journey that is far from over. Stay tuned for more detailed reflections and insights as I continue to navigate this beautiful, messy, and ultimately rewarding adventure called life.

Connect with me on LinkedIn. I'd love to hear your story.