20 Years, 3 Continents, and No Regrets

They say home is where the heart is, but after 20 years of living abroad, I’ve learned that home is also something you build within yourself.

Two decades. Three different continents. Multiple cities, cultures, and a lifetime of memories. As I sit back and reflect on this journey, I still find myself amazed at how quickly the years have flown by.

The "Perfect" Life I Left Behind

Twenty years ago, on paper, I had it all. I was the youngest sibling, the only daughter, and I was living what many would call the "dream." I had a fantastic job with a great salary, my own brand new car, and my own little house. In fact, I had already sketched the blueprints for a second house and was ready to break ground at any moment. I was surrounded by a circle of authentic, lifelong childhood friends.

By all accounts, I should have stayed put. But there was a "travel bug" itching in my soul—a legacy, perhaps, from my father. He was a man of discipline, integrity, respect, and art, serving as the Chief of Police while moonlighting as a musician who traveled abroad for concerts. Growing up in a family that prioritised yearly international holidays, family time, work-life balance, the world always felt like it was waiting for me.

So, I took the leap. Alone. Without knowing what the future entailed, I traded my comfort zone for the unknown.

Not for the Faint of Heart

Let’s be real: moving abroad isn't just about beautiful sunsets and new cafes. It is not for the faint of heart. Especially in the beginning, being on your own in a foreign land is tough. You are constantly exposed to new norms and different ways of doing things. You have to navigate the silent question: Where do I fit in? What parts of my culture do I keep, what do I adapt, and what do I let go?

But that struggle is exactly what shapes you. Living abroad forces you to become stronger, more independent, and definitely a no-nonsense person. It sharpens your perspective and makes you outspoken in ways you never imagined.

The Legacy Continues

It’s funny how history repeats itself. Today, my eldest niece and nephew are also studying and living abroad. I guess that "travel bug" and the "guts" to explore truly run in our blood! Seeing them take their own steps makes me realise that the courage I had 20 years ago paved a way for the next generation to be just as brave.

The Perspective Shift

Does living abroad make me better than anyone else? No. But it has offered me a unique perspective. It has challenged my assumptions, taught me incredible flexibility, and forced me to be intentional about who I am becoming.

I do miss my family and my friends back home, of course. Some days the distance feels heavy, but thank goodness for the technology that keeps us connected and the vacations that bring us back together.

My Advice? Just Do It.

If you are standing on the edge of a big decision, wondering if you should take that leap abroad: Just go for it.

It’s scary? Yes. It’s uncertain? Absolutely. But if you don't want to live with "what ifs," you have to break through that fear. The worst-case scenario? You can always return home. But the best-case scenario? You find a version of yourself that is resilient, empathetic, and full of character.

Twenty years later, I am still exploring, still learning, and still incredibly proud of that girl who dared to leave it all behind to find the world.

Here's a question for you: If you could move to any city in the world tomorrow without any fear, where would your "leap of faith" take you?

Feel free to leave a comment below.

Cheerios! Till another time!

Jlai 😎✌🏼