You're working abroad and feeling disconnected. How can you maintain a sense of community?

Tenho larga experiencia com contextos multiculturais e na minha experiência algumas atitudes fazem muita diferença: Aprender a língua local, mesmo que no seu novo trabalho ou escola você só use uma língua como o inglês; demonstrar interesse e apreciação pela nova cultura; faça um diário das suas experiências e observações - isso pode ajudá-lo a entender o seu progresso, ou a falta dele. Quando possível faça terapia com profissionais que tenham experiência em adaptação intercultural.

If you're an international student the best way to find your tribe is joining society and clubs within your University. Either you can find the ones that you're already into (i.e for me it's photography) and at the same time you try out new ones. You might even end up discovering a new skill, sport or activity.

The most valuable and unexpected way to connect and express abroad I found, is when I joined different public speaking groups here and there through Toastmasters. You do not have to be a member for this and can actually get a glimpse of a wide range of skill sets in public speaking, on a high demand in the personal and professional space. The hack here is that not only you could learn and get inspired for free, but you can also give it a go and take part in their impromptu speech. As a non native English speaker, it allowed me to: 1 - sharpen my thoughts and get to the point in a foreign language, and gain confidence 2 - connect with like-minded and inspiring people, coming from everywhere 3 - unlock possibilities and embrace discomfort!

I can 100% recommend running (or even jogging). It doesn’t cost anything and it’s good for not only your physical but also mental health. It’s a great way to explore your new surroundings and get to know the local area. If you run the at the same time every day/week, you’ll also more often than not see some familiar faces on your way so you can strike up a conversation or just a simple “good morning/afternoon” if you feel like it. You can find also new routes (and running buddies/groups) through fitness apps like Strava and Nike Run Club.

También es recomendable de inscribirse a los clubes de apoyo profesional, o crear tus propios entre la gente de tu misma nacionalidad o expatriados.

Einer der größten Sorgen von vieler meiner Freunde ist es, dass sie ihre Bekanntschaften verlieren, wenn sie ins Ausland gehen. All denen den ich geraten habe es trotzdem zu machen, können mittlerweile bestätigen, dass ein kurzfristiger Auslandsaufenthalt mit der Perspektive des Zurückkommens, meist nur positive Auswirkung auf sich und die Freunde hatte:) Kein Grund zur Sorge, die Technologie hilft mit Videotelefonie in Kontakt zu bleiben.

It was very tough at the very beginning to get used to ‘new normal’ and I have missed the routine we’ve had with the friends and family greatly… I believe it is crucial to find time to just drop a message, make the call or even - if feeling lonely to put on the favourite song/music to bring back the great memories. Staying in touch, even when everyone moving on with their lives is important and it does help to feel included and yet make you feel like you are still part of their lives despite the circumstances and the distance.

For me that was super important! Keeping in touch with my existing beloved ones, was a key way to cope with any change. It was my solid basis before starting to expand my network. Also, finding time to travel and visit friends and family across other countries, was also vital!

Weil wir oft schlechte oder gar keine Internetverbindung hatten und ich einiges auch nicht am Telefon sagen konnte, habe ich begonnen, Briefe zu schreiben. Dabei habe ich die Erfahrung gemacht, dass die sehr gut angenommen wurden. Und die Antworten habe ich heute noch- etwas zum Anfassen und immer wieder lesen. Auch nachts in der Wüste.

I will manage, you can easily communicate with them through phone calls, video calls, text messages, or social media. You can also schedule regular catch-ups, virtual hangouts, or online games to stay updated and have fun together. However, be mindful of the time zones and the potential for burnout. Try to find a balance between staying connected and respecting your own and others' boundaries

Learning the language was an absolute game changer for me - people opened up to me in a different way and I was able to make and maintain Dutch friendships.

Wichtig ist, sich vor dem Auslandsaufenthalt mit der lokalen Kultur und Geschichte auseinanderzusetzen. Dann hat man Anknüpfungspunkte, wenn man da ist. Ansonsten: Echtes Interesse zeigen!

I used to volunteer to most of the new places and cities I visited. From taking care of people in need or spending time with kids, this was a great way to keep myself busy, learn about the new culture and offer something positive!

Teaching English, or even participating in language exchanges, is a great way to meet new people. Not only are you helping them develop their English skills but you can also learn a lot about the local culture and customs of that country that you wouldn’t necessarily find in a guide book.

What helped me is finding groups of interest on meetup.com and internations. Great way to connect based on your hobbies and find more internationals you can relate to.

The easiest way for me during my time abroad, was to offer voluntary work within local skills I learned at home. So teach you native language, show the dishes or meals you are eating or celebrating the big days together (e.g. Christmas)

Melhorar sempre a capacidade pessoal de conviver consigo mesmo ! Muitas pessoas não suportam a experiência de um trabalho no exterior alegando solidão mas muitas vezes o que elas não suportam é a convivência com elas mesmas !

Keep a positive mindset! Changes take time (months to years) but is always worth the effort! I remember reading blogs online to get familiar with any new country I was about to move to!

Freundlich auf die Menschen zugehen und sie respektvoll und auf Augenhöhe behandeln. Fast immer bekommt man das zurück- insbesondere wenn man als Europäer nicht arrogant auftritt.