Freedom Isn't Location - It's Having Choices
What will do you if the borders close?
What will you do if the borders close?
This question keeps surfacing in conversations within our expat community. At first glance, it seems dramatic, perhaps even alarmist. But as we dive deeper into these discussions, a profound truth emerges: having options isn't about paranoia—it's about practical preparation for an uncertain world.
The Speed of Change
History has repeatedly shown us how quickly circumstances can shift. Borders can change overnight, opportunities can vanish in moments, and economic systems can transform rapidly. The comfort of "it can't happen here" has historically been a dangerous assumption.
Just look at recent events:
Digital borders shifting with platform bans
New immigration policies being announced
Travel restrictions being proposed
Economic systems showing vulnerability
Learning from History: The Value of Options
History offers us profound lessons about the importance of having choices and maintaining mobility. Consider these pivotal moments:
The 1930s: When Options Meant Everything
The 1930s provide a sobering lesson in the importance of options. Many families who had the means and opportunity to leave waited too long, believing their current stability would continue. They couldn't imagine their world changing so dramatically—until it did.
Historical Patterns of Movement
Throughout history, we see similar patterns:
The Cuban Revolution (1959)
Many successful professionals and business owners believed the political changes wouldn't affect their daily lives. By the time they realized the extent of the changes, many had lost their ability to leave or transfer their assets.
Fall of Saigon (1975)
Numerous families with the means to leave earlier waited until the last moment, believing stability would return. Many who waited too long lost their assets and their opportunity to choose their destination.
Venezuelan Crisis (2014-present)
Middle-class professionals who left early could transfer assets, establish new lives, and help family members later. Those who waited faced increasingly restricted options for both travel and financial transfers.
What These Moments Teach Us
These historical examples share common themes:
Change often happens faster than people expect
Economic restrictions often precede movement restrictions
Having options doesn't mean you must use them
Early preparation provides more choices
Financial mobility often closes before physical mobility
Modern Applications
Today's world offers more mobility options than ever before:
Digital nomad visas
Remote work opportunities
International banking
Global education pathways
Professional skill portability
This isn't about fearmongering—it's about understanding that having options isn't just a luxury—it's a form of security. In today's interconnected world, maintaining the ability to move freely is as much about professional opportunity as it is about personal security.
What Does Having Options Look Like?
Having options doesn't mean having one foot out the door. Instead, it means:
1. Documentation Readiness
Updated passports for all family members
Important documents digitized and secured
Understanding visa requirements for potential destinations
2. Educational Flexibility
Research on international schools
Understanding different education systems
3. Professional Mobility
Developing location-independent skills
Building an international network
Understanding global job markets
4. Financial Preparation
Understanding currency diversification
Building portable income streams
A Personal Perspective
Having built a life across London, Copenhagen, and Doha, I've learned that freedom isn't about any particular location. It's about having choices about where you could be. Each move has taught me that the ability to choose is more valuable than any specific destination.
Key Questions to Consider
As you think about your family's options, consider:
Where does your family feel safest?
What options have you already created?
What simple steps could you take to create more choices?
How transferable are your professional skills?
What would your Plan B look like if you needed it?
Taking Action
Start small, but start now. Consider:
Getting or renewing passports
Researching international schools
Building remote work skills
Location-independent income streams
Connecting with international communities
The Bottom Line
This isn't about paranoid preparation—it's about practical planning. It's about understanding that having options is not just smart—it's essential in today's world.
Remember: The best time to create options is when you don't need them.
Whether you choose to stay or go isn't the point. The point is that freedom lies in having the choice.
Understanding these historical lessons helps us make informed decisions about our future. The key is creating options before you need them, ensuring your family can choose its path forward.
Your Expat Life helps families create global options through community, resources, and expert guidance. Join us to learn more about building a life without borders.
Leaving is a luxury. I hope people who have the ability to do so appreciate it.
The comfort of "it can't happen here" has historically been a dangerous assumption. I think people who are paralyzed with denial use this phrase or God is still in control as their defense mechanism. I find it annoying. I am
Making plans to relocate by September. I’m mad at myself that I’m still in the USA.