Expat Advice: Invest in Yourself, Not Things

Advice for Temporary Expats: Focus on Self-Improvement, Not Material Possessions Many people find themselves temporarily living abroad for work or other reasons. The uncertainty of their stay can lead to difficult decisions. Recently, a video by Edita Ivanovna, a Belarusian expat living in London since 1999, went viral. She shared advice based on her experiences and observations of fellow expats. "Use this time productively," she advises, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement. She notes that many expats make the mistake of focusing on material purchases, only to find themselves in a difficult position when their visas expire. Instead, she suggests investing in skills and education, such as learning the local language. Edita’s video highlights the story of a young couple who spent their savings on material things in the Netherlands, only to find themselves without options when their visas ended. "They bought this, they bought that," Edita explains, "but they didn't invest in themselves." This cautionary tale underscores the importance of long-term planning for temporary expats. Edita's message is clear: while living abroad, focus on acquiring valuable skills and knowledge that will benefit you regardless of where you eventually settle. This approach ensures that even if you return home, you'll have gained valuable assets for your future.