To the Mother Dreaming of Life Abroad
A Mother's Day Message
On this Mother's Day, I want to pause and celebrate you, the mother who dares to imagine more for her family.
The one who stays up late researching international schools after everyone else has gone to bed. The one who secretly calculates currency exchange rates and cost of living comparisons. The one who wonders if her children might thrive in a different education system, a different culture, a different rhythm of life.
You've joined our Your Expat Life community because something inside you knows there could be more—more quality time, cultural richness, balance, and joy—for both your family and yourself.
I see you.
The Courage to Want More
There's a special kind of courage in acknowledging that the life you've built—perhaps even one that looks successful by conventional standards—isn't fully aligned with your deeper values and aspirations.
Society tells mothers to settle, to sacrifice, to make do. To put everyone else first and be grateful for whatever remains.
But you've recognized a profound truth: your family's wellbeing and your own fulfillment aren't opposing forces. They're interconnected in the most fundamental way.
The journey toward international living isn't about running away from responsibilities. It's about running toward a lifestyle that honors what matters most—to you and to those you love.
When the Path Seems Steep
I won't sugarcoat this journey. There are moments when the logistics feel overwhelming. When family members question your choices. When doubts creep in during the small hours of the morning.
The voice of fear whispers: Who am I to disrupt our lives? What if it doesn't work out? Shouldn't I just be content with what we have?
Here's what I want you to know, from someone who has walked this path with my own family across England, Denmark, and now Qatar:
It is harder to stay in a life that doesn't align with your values than to brave the temporary challenges of creating one that does.
The discomfort of transition is real but fleeting. The quiet ache of unexplored potential lasts much longer.
Five Self-Care Priorities for Mothers on the International Journey
As you navigate this path toward international living, remember that your wellbeing isn't optional—it's essential to the success of your family's transition. Here are five ways to care for yourself during this journey:
1. Honor Your Intuition
The doubtful voices—both external and internal—will be loud. But beneath them is a quieter voice that knows what your family needs. Create space to hear it.
Action Step: Set aside 15 minutes each morning before the household wakes, just to journal or sit quietly with your thoughts about this potential move. Notice which concerns stem from practical challenges (which can be solved) versus genuine misalignment with your values (which should be heeded).
2. Find Your Trailblazers
You are not the first mother to walk this path, and you don't need to navigate it alone. Other women have faced the same fears, made similar transitions, and emerged stronger.
Action Step: Reach out to one mother in our Your Expat Life community who has already made the move you're considering. Ask her the question that keeps you up at night—her answer might be exactly what you need to hear.
3. Create Micro-Adventures Now
You don't need to wait until you're abroad to begin embracing a more adventurous, culturally rich family life. Start practicing now.
Action Step: Dedicate one weekend this month to living as though you're already abroad. Explore an unfamiliar neighborhood, try foods from your potential destination country, use public transportation instead of driving, or attempt to speak a few words of a new language together as a family.
4. Release Perfection
The international transition won't be flawless. Some days will be messy. Some decisions will need adjustment. This doesn't mean you've made a mistake—it means you're human.
Action Step: Keep a simple record of challenges you've overcome in previous life transitions. When things get difficult, review it to remind yourself of your family's natural resilience and ability to adapt.
5. Protect Your Dream Time
The logistical details of an international move can quickly overwhelm the vision that inspired it. Don't lose sight of the "why" amid the "how."
Action Step: Create a visual reminder of what this move represents for your family—perhaps a vision board, a written manifesto, or simply a collection of images that capture the lifestyle you're moving toward. Return to it when you feel overwhelmed by details.
A Mother's Wisdom Leads the Way
Here's what I've come to believe through my own journey and the stories shared in our community: A mother's intuition about what her family needs is rarely wrong.
If something in you is drawn to the possibility of life abroad—despite the challenges, despite the unknowns—there is wisdom in that pull. It deserves your attention and respect.
The world needs more children raised by mothers who have the courage to align their family's lifestyle with their deepest values. Who show by example that comfort zones are meant to be expanded. Who demonstrate that meaningful connection and cultural understanding are worth temporary discomfort.
On this Mother's Day, I honor your vision for your family. The research you've done while everyone else sleeps. The courage it takes to even consider a different path.
You are not alone on this journey. Our community stands with you, mothers who understand the challenges and the profound rewards of raising global children.
Whatever stage you're at in this process—whether researching, planning, or preparing for your move—remember that this journey reflects the essence of motherhood: brave love in action, creating possibilities that will shape future generations.
Happy Mother's Day to the woman brave enough to want more for herself and those she loves most.
What step are you taking next on your journey toward international living? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let our community support you. Already living abroad? What would you tell a mother just beginning this path? Your wisdom matters to those following in your footsteps.
Happy Mother’s Day 💕