"There's never been a better time to relocate abroad": I left Texas for Spain and have assisted thousands of Americans in their international moves.

"There's never been a better time to relocate abroad": I left Texas for Spain and have assisted thousands of Americans in their international moves.
"There's never been a better time to relocate abroad": I left Texas for Spain and have assisted thousands of Americans in their international moves.

Moving abroad can be a great way to experience new adventures, break out of a rut, or reassess your current living situation. However, it's important to understand that the process of relocating to another country is complex and requires careful planning.

At 17, I embarked on a journey to the Netherlands which ignited my passion for international travel. By 21, I experienced my "Goldilocks moment" in Madrid, realizing that Spain was the perfect fit for me. I spent a few years studying Spanish, teaching English, and pursuing a master's degree there. However, life kept drawing me back to the United States.

Despite losing my parents suddenly in my early 30s, I eventually settled back in Texas and worked through my grief. Later, I found myself stuck in a monotonous routine and felt an irresistible urge to move abroad.

In 2015, I returned to Spain and never looked back.

In 2022, I made a significant choice: I decided to leave my nine-to-five job to focus entirely on She Hit Refresh. I assist women aged 30 and above in realizing their dreams of living abroad through a thriving Facebook community of over 15,000 women, a live master class, resources, and ongoing support.

With the increase of remote work and digital nomad visas, now is the perfect time to take the leap and move abroad. My master class covers the four foundational steps that can help you make this transition successfully.

Imagine your dream life abroad

Now is the moment to define your future vision and create a life that aligns with your unique desires.

Imagine your perfect day. Do you enjoy leisurely mornings in a quaint Parisian café, sipping an espresso while observing the city come alive?

Perhaps you're strolling through a quaint seaside village in Portugal, conversing with locals while browsing for fresh bread and flowers. Or maybe you're indulging in tacos on a sunlit square in Mexico. Or perusing a market in Thailand, where the aromas of fresh jasmine and street food intermingle in the air.

To achieve our goals, it's easier to devise a plan by first knowing what we want to accomplish.

Consider career and income

There are now more opportunities than ever to live and work wherever you desire without needing to wait for a corporate transfer or learn English.

If you're already employed, check if your employer allows remote work. Many companies are now offering more flexibility, so it's worth inquiring about your options. If you're looking for a new job, consider work-from-anywhere companies. Websites like Remote Rebellion and We Work Remotely are great resources to start with.

If you're considering a career change, look into high-demand jobs in tech, customer support, marketing, and project management at remote-first companies. If your current skills don't align, consider reskilling in one of these areas.

To become a digital nomad, you can become a virtual assistant or offer freelance services. The Digital Nomad Kit can help you learn how to transfer your skills into a remote gig and find clients.

Ask the right questions to find the right fit

The decision of where to live is straightforward for some, but uncertain for others. It's crucial to consider what suits you, not only in terms of lifestyle but also the practical aspects.

Draw on your perfect day and career research and consider:

  • Determine your budget and then use Numbeo to calculate the cost of living for your desired destination. Don't forget to include any expenses from your home country, such as a mortgage, credit card debt, cell phone plan, and savings.
  • What are the visa options available for digital nomads, non-lucrative workers, highly qualified individuals, and others? My visa guide to Europe provides details on over 50 visa options.
  • Your research from step two will help you determine where you can realistically pursue the career you want and make the income you need to live.
  • Which environment do you prefer: the bustling city or the serene countryside? To determine which lifestyle suits you best, explore expat forums or embark on a scouting trip to experience your new life.
  • What makes you feel like you truly belong? It's not just about relocating to the trendiest location; it's about discovering a place that resonates with you. Remember to consider factors such as safety, culture, and community, particularly for more vulnerable groups like women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.

No place will completely match every box, but there's always a place that can feel like home.

Navigate inevitable doubts and fears

The doubtful voice in your head may arise, questioning your ability to achieve your dream life. However, it's essential to understand that this is a common experience. Despite the challenges of relocating abroad, it's possible to overcome them and make your dream life a reality.

Each of the challenges, such as achieving financial security, adjusting to a new culture, or feeling isolated, can be acknowledged and managed.

There are methods to not only endure but also flourish while establishing a financial safety net, seeking assistance from expat communities, or mastering new procedures.

The key is to approach challenges with a focus on finding solutions, an openness to the unknown, and trust in your ability to adapt.

By adopting the right mindset and being adequately prepared, what was previously considered an unreachable aspiration will appear more achievable than you ever thought possible.

Cepee Tabibian is the founder of She Hit Refresh, a platform that assists women aged 30+ in relocating abroad, and the author of "I'm Outta Here! An American's Comprehensive Guide to Living in Europe." As the child of Colombian and Iranian immigrants, Cepee was raised in Houston, Texas, before moving to Spain herself.

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I'm an American living in a $2,100/month luxury, 2-bedroom apartment in Copenhagen, Denmark
by Cepee Tabibian

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