In Focus: Opening up to new experiences

In the last four years, I have been a bit of a nomad, having lived in three countries. It was my choice and I grew richer from the experiences.

It all started in a lightbulb moment in 2016 when I decided I wanted to do something different from journalism and get out of my comfort zone.

So, off I went to China to teach English and embrace a new culture.

Getting lost on the first day was no picnic in a country where very few speak English, ironically I was there to teach the language.

Nevertheless, that little hiccup did not faze me, I eventually found my way and had a blast in my new role as a teacher.

The ‘teaching career’ continued with a stint in Turkey.

Surprisingly, an attempted coup there prior to my departure did not concern me – it must be because I am tough South African.

A piece of advice, though, if you intend working in a foreign country, make sure your paperwork is in order or you could end up at a police station or crossing the border. I ended up in both these situations. While it was not fun, it all ended well.

My last stint was in Seychelles, this time back in the journalism fold.

Here too, I was out of my comfort zone working at a daily newspaper, also in a country where English is not the first language. It was challenging but an experience to remember.

Living overseas was not all perfect, I missed family and home but I learnt that if you are in a new place, you need to embrace it, however, sometimes it’s easier said than done.

Going overseas was a personal challenge for me to get out of my comfort zone.

But one need not go that far for new experiences.

Look on your own doorstep, take up a new interest, something you would not have thought of attempting or better still, become a volunteer, everyone has a soft spot for something be it animals, the environment or more.

Life is meant for experiences, not regrets. Don’t be caught saying, ‘I should have done that’.

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