Life Abroad, Identity, and the Search for Belonging
Welcome to Almost Local, a space for people navigating life abroad — expats, migrants, and anyone building a life in a country that isn’t their own. Whether you’ve just moved overseas or have been living abroad for years, this community exists to help you feel less alone and more understood.
Almost Local was born from my own experience living in The Hague, Netherlands, a city where nearly half the population is from elsewhere. Surrounded by people constantly adapting — new languages, systems, and cultures — I realised how deeply we need spaces to talk about the emotional side of living abroad. That need is what sparked the creation of the Almost Local podcast and blog.
You can continue reading or listen to the Episode on the Podcast here or on Spotify or Apple.
The Beginning of 2026: A New Year, a New Compass
The start of a new year often comes with pressure: resolutions, goals, and expectations to “do more” or “be better.” But when you live abroad, New Year’s resolutions can feel very different.
Instead of piling on more goals, this year invites us to pause and create a compass — something that gently guides us through life abroad, rather than pushing us forward at full speed.
Locals vs Almost Locals: New Year’s Resolutions That Sound Different
1. Productivity and Emotional Exhaustion
Locals often say:
“I want to be more productive.”
Almost locals might say:
“I want to stop feeling exhausted by translating my life every day.”
Living abroad requires constant mental effort — navigating language barriers, cultural expectations, and unfamiliar systems. This invisible work is rarely acknowledged, but it’s very real.
2. Travel vs Familiarity
Locals might say:
“I want to travel more.”
Almost locals often say:
“I want one place to finally feel familiar.”
Travel and novelty can be exciting, but for many expats, stability and familiarity become the true luxury over time.
3. Making Friends vs Building Deeper Connections
Locals say:
“I want to meet new people.”
Almost locals say:
“I want deeper connections — even if it’s just one person.”
When you start from zero in a new country, meaningful relationships matter more than numbers.
👉 Related Post: 20 Tips for Building Community Abroad
4. Growth and Identity Abroad
Locals often say:
“I want to grow.”
Almost locals often think:
“I want to feel like myself again.”
Living abroad changes your identity. Sometimes growth isn’t about becoming someone new — it’s about recognising who you’re becoming in between cultures.
5. Clarity vs Permission to Be In-Between
Locals often seek clarity: clear plans, direction, certainty.
Almost locals often seek something else: permission.
Permission to live in-between — between countries, cultures, identities, and versions of themselves.
This in-between space is not a failure. It’s part of the journey.
👉 When does a place stop feeling temporary? When do you stop calling it ‘this city’ and start saying ‘home’? Learn more about why I created Almost Local. Read Full Article.
Connecting as Almost Locals in Auckland
This new chapter of Almost Local continues in Auckland, New Zealand, where we host interactive workshops and community gatherings for expats and migrants navigating life abroad.
These spaces are designed to talk openly about:
- Culture shock
- Belonging and loneliness
- Identity shifts
- Building community in a new country
Are you moving or living in New Zealand? Meet the Almost Local team in person! If you’re based in New Zealand, you’re warmly invited to join us and connect with others who understand what life abroad truly feels like. Learn more about our upcoming “Life Abroad Workshops” & “Coffee Circles” for expats and migrants in New Zealand.
There’s No Right Way to Begin a Year
Wherever you are in the world, know this:
If your only goal this year is to feel a little more at home, that is enough.
There’s no right or wrong way to start a new year.
Only different journeys, different rhythms, and different paths that are worth honouring.
Frequently asked questions about New Year’s resolutions for those who live abroad:
In case you’re wondering…
Question:
Why do New Year’s resolutions feel different when living abroad?
Our Answer:
Living abroad adds emotional and mental layers that locals don’t always experience, such as adapting to a new culture, language, and identity. For many expats, New Year’s resolutions focus less on productivity and more on belonging, stability, and emotional well-being.
Question:
What are the common challenges expats face at the beginning of a new year?
Our Answer:
Common challenges include loneliness, identity shifts, culture shock, and the pressure to “make the move worth it.” Many expats also feel torn between their home country and their new one, which can complicate goal-setting.
“Almost Local” describes the in-between experience of living abroad — when a place starts to feel familiar but never fully replaces where you come from. It’s about belonging without needing to fully arrive.
Instead of focusing on traditional goals, expats can benefit from creating a personal compass that prioritises emotional health, community, and routines that foster a sense of home in their new country.
⭐ You’re Not Behind — You’re Human
If you’re navigating life abroad, rebuilding your identity, or trying to find your people, remember:
You are not behind.
You are not alone.
Your community exists.
Thank you for being part of the Almost Local community. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform. You can also support us by liking an episode or writing a brief review. The Almost Local gang truly appreciates!
And, before you go: Remember, you can now join our community by becoming a member or subscribing to our Monthly newsletter and getting our Mini workbook for life abroad for free.
Now I’m off for my morning coffee.
Until the next episode,
Maria