Ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos of living abroad? Imagine being calm and confident no matter the situation.
It’s very doable when you adopt the wise and ancient secret weapon of Stoicism.
Introduction
Moving abroad is exciting, but it can also bring a rollercoaster of emotions. All expats must contend with unfamiliar culture, language barriers, and constant change– and the amount of energy needed to deal with the expat reality can overwhelm even the most prepared traveler. But what if I told you there’s a way to navigate challenges with calm elegance? Enter Stoicism, a philosophy over 2,000 years old, yet still incredibly relevant. You can greatly improve your expat experience by simply applying a few basic stoic principles.
Understand the Philosophy: Why the Stoic Thrives
Stoicism is more than just a philosophy; it’s a practical guide for living with calm intent. At its core, it teaches us to distinguish between what we can and cannot control. Imagine applying this mindset when dealing with the paperwork or cultural misunderstandings of your new country. Stoicism requires approaching all situations in measured, calm manner. It encourages us to limit our impulsiveness and instead focus on what we can influence and let go of what we cannot.
The Spread of Stoicism: Famous Stoics and Their Teachings
1. Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius was a Roman emperor and a famous philosopher. He wrote a series of personal writings known as “Meditations,” where he reflected on how to live a good life. One of his key teachings is the idea of accepting things we cannot change and focusing on our own actions and reactions.
For example, if you’re stuck in a long line at the immigration office, instead of getting frustrated, you can practice patience and use the time to reflect or relax.
2. Epictetus
Epictetus was born a slave but became a well-known teacher of stoicism. He believed that our true power lies in our ability to control our own minds. He taught that while we cannot control external events, we can control how we respond to them.
If you face a cultural misunderstanding, like someone reacting negatively to your customs, Epictetus would advise staying calm and trying to understand their perspective rather than reacting with anger.
3. Seneca
Seneca was a Roman philosopher and statesman who wrote extensively about Stoicism. He emphasized the importance of self-discipline and resilience. Seneca taught that we should prepare for challenges by thinking about them in advance.
For instance, when moving to a new country, you might anticipate some difficulties, such as homesickness or language barriers, and mentally prepare yourself to handle these situations with patience and grace.
Whether it’s dealing with long waits, cultural misunderstandings, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, we can learn from these philosophers, as Stoicism offers a practical approach to maintain our inner peace. Through application of the principles, we are reminded to focus on what we can change and accept what we cannot, helping us navigate the ups and downs of expat life with greater ease.
What Does It Mean To Be a Stoic?
Embracing Change and Uncertainty
Living abroad means constant change and unpredictability and it is human nature to resist change. The philosophy of Stoicism invites us to embrace it rather than resist it. In doing so, we transform anxiety into opportunity. Stoicism itself teaches us that change is a natural part of life, and when we accept the natural, we find stability within ourselves, regardless of external circumstances.
Practicing Mindfulness and Presence
Even if you’ve chosen the most laid back country in the world, moving abroad is a confusing rush of paperwork and ‘getting settled’. During the process, it’s easy to become future-focused and always planning the next move (or trip). Stoicism, however, emphasizes the importance of slowing down and staying in the moment. We honor ourselves by practicing mindfulness, finding joy and tranquility in the here and now. The mindfulness of Stoicism allows us to appreciate unique aspects of being an expat.
Building Resilience through Adversity
You cannot avoid challenges while living abroad. But what if each obstacle became a lesson in resilience? This philosophy gives expats the mental fortitude to turn setbacks into stepping stones. By reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, you can build a stronger, more resilient mindset that allows you to thrive no matter where you land.
Cultivating Gratitude and Contentment
In the midst of homesickness or culture shock, it’s easy to dwell on what we miss. Stoicism shifts our focus to gratitude, helping us find contentment in the present. By appreciating what we have, rather than longing for what we don’t, we can maintain a positive outlook and enjoy the richness of our expat experiences.
Navigating Social Dynamics with Stoic Wisdom
Socializing in a new culture can be a minefield of conflicts and misunderstandings, but with the principles of stoicism, we can approach social life with a non-drama, calm mindset. This allows us to engage with others in ways that fostering genuine connections and mutual respect. By maintaining our composure and displaying maturity, we can build meaningful connections and avoid the pitfalls of impulsive or dramatic behavior.
The Roadmap
As an expat, you can transform your experience from feelings of upheaval and change to one of growth and acceptance simply by embracing stoic principles. Think of stoicism as a roadmap and use it to navigate your own adventure abroad with a calm, collected mindset.
Don’t forget to check out the dirty secrets of living abroad and if you like video format– consider visiting Aoife’s Expat Cafe on YouTube!
Until we next spill tea, keep your coffee strong– but your expat game stronger!
