“A lot of people decide to relocate on a whim. They apply for a visa or grab a new job, and the next thing they’re packing their bags, to jump on the first flight. Spontaneity giving them an adrenaline rush.

But that’s not my story. 

From early on, I had this inclination to study overseas. I knew exactly what I wanted to achieve from this experience- growth and transformation. My dad went to the UK for his studies, and I also wanted to follow suit. I shortlisted Australia since it aligned better with my purpose. Though it wasn’t decided if the stay would be a permanent one, but that concern was for a later time. I could either go home after completing my engineering degree or bag a job and stay for a couple more years. By the end of my course, it was clear I would pick the latter because the decision to move to Australia alone eight years ago has been one of my best.

My expat life has taught me more than I could ever give it credit for. It shaped the life that I’m proud to be living now. It taught me the art of balancing- the importance of working hard to reach my goals and taking time off to relax. It certainly was not all roses when it started– far from it. The exorbitant Sydney rental prices meant I had to share a flat with three other classmates, but it proved to be a welcoming change. We ended up becoming friends for life. 

I learned how to save on the small things in an expensive city. I weathered a lot of tricky situations with reverse planning. Doing this suggested I had to go past wishy-washy confusions and consider the goal first, then meticulously work backward. Like when it was time to apply for a PR, I didn’t book any migration agent and figured the documentation on my own. I didn’t know much about the wealthy paperwork, but extensive research and planning helped. 

Now when I felt settled, my mind kept travelling back to homeownership. I wanted something that was mine, but I honestly had no idea what I was in for. Once again, careful research came in order, and a year and a half later, my wife and I zeroed in on our first home in Sydney.

What has been my biggest takeaway? Regardless of the nature of hardship, the way we respond to adversity matters. A simple errand might go exponentially rigid at times. But with the right attitude, you can see the bright side of it and make the best happen.”