'Live life to the fullest they say'. But have you ever asked yourself if you're happy and contented enough living alone, away from family and just enjoying your 'I wanna grow and live independently' motto? If yes, let's check this out if you'll pass the test without guilt and pressure!!
Let's all be honest! We all have that feeling of longing to our loved ones and family most of the time. Like you miss their company and care yet you still manage to accept the temporary distance. Well, thanks to the help of all existing social medias nowadays. Then here you are, living independently. Are you happy? Well, for me... I am. Maybe because it's always been my dream to work in Europe (It's a dream come true😊). But sometimes it leaves me much questions to answer. I have done lots of biggest decisions and living abroad was one. I can do anything like I'm living free and independent, yes! But part of me says I'm not capable to do so.
For me, being independent requires maturity. You can't just say "ohhh! I can cook now, I can do the laundry, I can pay my own bills" and so on. You should know how to carry your own weight at all cost.
I am currently living in Europe (Finland) and I must say, too many factors that lead up to comparison. Like is it worth it to live here then? Coz the standard of living here is quite different compared to the Philippines. The cost of living's too high, plus the culture differences and even the weather they have here will totally affect you. That sums up your 'I can adjust soon and get used to it" matters.
You're working very hard to earn money for yourself and your family. You do the budgeting and plan for your expenses. You save as much as you can. You make your own decisions. You live your own life. Is it too risky? I bet YES! Well, I can only imagine living hard without support system. Lucky you if you have friends to minimize the longing. But you'll get used to it. Been there, done that!
Do you call your place a home? In my case, I have a Finnish female roommate. Our apartment is just near the City Center. Here in Europe, it's not a big deal whether you have a big or small apartment. It's always best here to be practical since the only thing that counts at the end of the day is having a home where you feel most comfortable to, safe and secure. And best part of it is that we bacame good friends (with my roommate). She's super nice, cool and easy to be with. Well, I guess that's a typical Finn!
Do you love your work?
It depends on the work you have of course. Let's say, it's the worked you've prayed for then you're blessed. If not, still you're lucky because it allows you to appreciate what you have for the moment but consider also the one that you're into, the one you enjoy doing -Your passion. I came up into a realization that it's really a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. You go abroad to earn a better living. Truth is, we already adopted the "nowadays norm". It's more like setting aside your pride and go over your piorities. It's a wonderful way of showing us what really matters.
Do you spend accordingly?
Truth is, it's really hard to save! Why? Because the standard of living here is different! Like what I've said, too high compared to Philippines. What can I say!? It's Europe so it's normal!!! Best advice?... Reset your bank balance!
Are getting used to their food?
They say, you can take the girl out of Asia but you can't take Asia out of the girl😂. That's quite a simple rule! Because we can't live without rice!! Great thing, there are Asian stores here in Finland. It's hard to adjust to the tastes of their local foods but I guess I've embraced them already as well!
How about the weather?
You are currently living in a country where the weather differs from where you came from: scorching heat or a freezing one? So we are into adjustment period again. To think; it also affect your mood, right?! Like the weather here in Europe.
This one's my unforgettable snow experience since it's the first time I saw snow😁😂 Funny right?! I still remember my teacher asking me before why Finland and not other European countries? And then I answered without a doubt... "because I wanna experience snow" hahaha! If you're living in a tropical country just like the Philippines, you'll definitely answer the same! YOU wanna experience SNOW!!!! But then, here it comes the struggle! Yes, the WINTER STRUGGLE! It's very amazing and exciting to witness the first snow of the year. Those snowflakes that you just can't imagine how real and perfect they were. Also the excitement in wearing your comfy and thick fur winter jackets and boots! Ohhh but I'm telling you... they're just those good memories at first. You'll get tired experiencing it and all you just wanan ask is the sun to set immediately and let the summer arrive! To think, winter here lasts for about 4 months. Those remaining months are still quite cold. So I'm asking you, still wanna try? 😂
How was the culture differences?
Living abroad and adopting new culture is a struggle, yet an adventure and a challenge one. You have to be open minded and always respect the way things are done. You need to adopt and adjust since every culture is unique and I bet you'll learn from them as well.
Here in Finland, people are much into small talks like they are far better into listening than talking and handshake is a must specially if you meet the person the first time! They love sauna as well! So, just like that! We have to deal with those differences or should I say, embrace them too!
So what's the best part of living abroad?
Well... You can meet new friends and that you can travel the world easily!!!!!
Do you consider yourself now a matured person the time you stood up on your own?
For me, you're matured enough if you think you're responsible for your own success and if you allow changes within yourself and in all aspects of life. Making such life changes are pretty scary. But what's even scarier is not doing the way you want it or not living the life you've ever imagined and or otherwise you'll end up regretting.
So what's your story? What's your thought?
Share it down below at the comment section!😊
See you again on my next one!😚
XoXo- JOVI
