She Strengthens

Embracing the Unromanticized Truth of Making Life-Altering Changes

We’ve all seen the inspiring quotes and motivational posts urging us to take the leap and pursue our dreams. But what’s often left unsaid is the harsh reality of making significant changes in our lives. The truth is, it’s tough, frustrating, and sometimes downright painful.

Leaving Behind the Familiar

Making life-altering changes often means saying goodbye to people, jobs, and places we love. It can lead to months of loneliness, struggling to adapt to new environments, and feeling like we’re starting from scratch. The financial struggles are real, too. Even with careful planning and saving, it’s common to face financial uncertainty and worry.

Finding Strength in the Struggle

Despite the challenges, it’s the struggles that make the triumphs all the more sweet. When we push through the tough times, we discover our inner strength and resilience. I know this firsthand, having recently made the bold decision to move to Germany. It wasn’t easy, but it was a necessary step for my personal growth and development.

Surviving on a Tight Budget

To make ends meet, I’ve had to get creative. Here are some strategies that have helped me stay afloat:

• Side Hustles: Forget the generic advice about surveys and Airbnb. Instead, focus on finding side hustles that align with your passions and skills. For me, that means leading hiking tours and tutoring clients.
• Cooking: Don’t be intimidated by recipes. Focus on the basic ingredients you need to make your favorite dishes, and experiment from there. Cooking at home has saved me money and helped me develop new skills.
• Taking Steps Forward: Invest in yourself and your career. Set daily goals to improve your skills and prepare for future opportunities. This helps me stay motivated and focused on the bigger picture.
• Saving: Even in the tightest months, I make it a priority to save a few dollars. It’s not always easy, but it gives me peace of mind knowing I have a safety net.
• Not Working for Free: Learn to say no to unpaid work and set boundaries with your employer. Remember, your time and skills are valuable, and you deserve to be compensated fairly.
• Timely Treats: Don’t forget to celebrate the small victories and treat yourself every now and then. Whether it’s a massage or a package of tea latte mixes, these little indulgences can make a big difference in your mental health and well-being.

Remembering Why We Started

There are times when I’ve doubted my decision to leave behind the comfort and security of my old life. But every morning, I wake up grateful for the opportunity to live in a new country and pursue my dreams. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.