Being a single foreigner and how to get the most out of it

Anyone who has traveled to a new place or culture for a long time can say that it is very difficult and scary. For a single expatriate, this can be even more intimidating and intense, but it doesn’t have to be! M Parker Counseling Mataya will teach you how to get the most out of being single in your new country.

Faced with a whole new culture on your own without the support of your partner can make the entire process of integrating and adapting to the new culture even more lonely. But in reality, many can do it, and it’s even more rewarding to start all over in the new world!

Let’s talk about some ways to reach that moment of victory where you can say “I did it, and I did it solo!”.

Cut slack

The first thing you need to do is give yourself a break! It’s hard to manage being in a new country, and sometimes it’s hard to be single, but since you’re doing both, it’s okay to rock it 24/7.

Choose one goal at a time (find a local grocery store, set up a bank account, or just pick your favorite cafe) and feel that you’ve achieved that goal before moving on to the next. ..

Reframe the negative

Being single can sometimes feel like a really big negative and make us even more isolated, but it can also be very free! This is a great opportunity to go out and meet new people from both the Dutch and foreign communities.

Being a foreigner can also make you feel lonely. So COVID (zoom call, park walk, coffee go is a great way to get started).

Instead of focusing on how lonely it is, try to focus on the sense of freedom and adventure that empowers you to come from building a brand new community for yourself.

Get mental health support

At times, being ourselves and facing all these challenges can be summed up. It can cause a lot of stress, anxiety and even depression. It’s okay, but that doesn’t mean you’ve failed or can’t achieve everything you’re trying to do, it just means it may be time to ask an expert for help.

Mataya works as a psychotherapist with expatriates from around the world, finding better ways to confidently adjust and manage anxiety and help her succeed in her new home. MeIf you have stress, burnout, anxiety, or depression, feel free to contact us. The first intake session is free and can be easily booked at your convenience on the M Parker Counseling website.Getting mental health support is not a weakness, but a sign of strength and determination...