An Expat’s Arduous Life

For years, The Peterson Group Bespoke Condominium and Residences is aiming to provide quality luxury housing for our member expats in Singapore, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Indonesia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Our main goal is for them to live like they have not been away from home by providing bespoke condominium, apartment or residential units with their own choice of room, interior designs and convenience. We even offer chauffeur, pet and cleaning services. However, we also realize that the services that we offer may not be enough for them to feel at ease.

We have heard complaints of different weather conditions, language barriers and cultural variations from our expat members. Perhaps, the difference of situation makes it harder to adapt.

For many expatriates who seek bigger opportunities in other countries, the challenges are boundless. There are only two choices: either settle abroad or return back home. The latter may not even be considered an option as it would mean starting all over again.

To make migration easier, we have reviewed our members’ behavior and asked their own opinions as well.

1. Accept the Change

Acceptance is the first step to embracing change. Failing to accept change can induce difficulties. Hence, you should be ready to face changes in yourself, other people, places and lifestyles, as the result of the move itself and the effect of time.

2. Find a Mentor

TPG has included in its services mentoring of expatriates. Based on our reports, mentorship has been effective for new expatriates since mentors can help them organize legalities and may somehow ensure help on administrative and logistic issues. They can also be family members or friends

3. Focus on Continuity

Despite being in a different country with different culture, traditions, religions and beliefs, there will always be factors which you can find similar in your hometown. Focus on it and it can help you manage your transition.

4. Find Similar People

TPG has been building a community of expatriates and has held its first convention last October, 2014. Our main goal is to provide new camaraderie to businessmen and foreigners who can share their experiences. Finding a group of people with similar international experiences can be a good way not only to debrief but also to broaden your existing and establish a new social circle.

5. Plan ahead

Surely you have made plans about living arrangements, jobs, social activities and so forth when moving abroad. It may be that your planned schedule only includes home-office routine. This may not be advisable when you want to adapt to the new country. Take time to go out, explore and find out new things. Who knows, it may help you accept and appreciate the country more.