When you move to a new country, you are exactly 0 years old. That means ZERO years old in local time. That’s one of the scariest realizations for many people. You need to learn almost everything … [Read more...]
Vera's Tips to Happy Life in a New Country
Tip #5 – Accept All Invitations
When I first came to Australia I didn’t speak any English. I was terrified to even try to talk to the locals. I felt ashamed that I couldn’t communicate. I was scared. It made me feel sad, … [Read more...]
Tip #4 – Be Interested First
This should be a no-brainer but it’s not. It should be common sense but many people don’t do it, so it’s not that common. When you move into someone else’s house, you are a guest. You are … [Read more...]
Tip #3 – Remember Your Why’s
Why did you come to live in a new country? This is the second half of the vicious cycle I talked about in the Tip #2. “Memory optimism” is a well described phenomenon that often … [Read more...]
Tip #2 – Dedicate 12 Months to be a “Sponge”
In first few days after we arrived to Melbourne, Tony said: “During first 12 months don’t make any big decisions. Don’t form any opinions about anything. Just observe, ask lots of questions, … [Read more...]
Tip #1 – Learn the Language
“Spend all your time and money on learning English. Your knowledge of English will directly translate into your income and happiness in Australia.” That was the very first advice we heard from … [Read more...]
WHY “Vera’s Tips Series”?
This “thing” has been on my mind on and off for last 10 years. Sometimes it's been louder than other times but it’s always been there. When I first came to Australia, I was very fortunate. … [Read more...]
