About This Blog
Moving abroad is often framed as an exciting adventure—a fresh start, a bold leap, a dream realized. And while all of that can be true, there’s another side to the story that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough: the emotional complexity of starting over in a new country.
This blog exists to explore that side.
Here, we talk about the psychological and emotional realities of living abroad—culture shock, homesickness, identity shifts, unmet expectations, and the quiet grief that can come with leaving a familiar life behind. We also talk about resilience, curiosity, growth, and the ways people slowly build a sense of “home” in unfamiliar places.
My goal is to normalize what so many expats feel but hesitate to say out loud: This is hard. Not because you did something wrong, but because major life transitions are inherently challenging.
Who This Is For
This blog is for:
- Expats and digital nomads navigating life abroad
- Individuals considering an international move
- Partners and families adjusting to relocation
- Anyone who has ever wondered, “Why is this harder than I expected?”
Whether you’ve just arrived, have been abroad for years, or are contemplating a move, you’re welcome here.
My Approach
I write from a therapeutic perspective, informed by clinical training and real-world experience working with people in transition. The focus is not on “fixing” emotions or forcing positivity, but on understanding what’s happening beneath the surface.
You’ll find reflections on mindset, expectation management, emotional awareness, and self-compassion—along with practical insights for navigating adjustment stress. The tone is intentionally human and accessible. Life abroad is complicated enough without adding jargon or judgment.
About Me
I’m John M. Williams, MS, a mental health professional with a particular interest in relocation stress, adjustment issues, and the emotional impact of major life changes. Much of my work centers on helping people make sense of their internal experiences during periods of uncertainty and transition.
Like many of the people who find their way here, I believe that growth doesn’t come from pretending things are easy—it comes from understanding ourselves more deeply when they aren’t.
A Final Note
This blog is not a substitute for therapy, but it is a space for reflection, validation, and shared experience. If something here resonates with you, I hope it reminds you that what you’re feeling makes sense—and that you don’t have to navigate it alone.
John M. Williams, MS
John the Expat 