111: The difference between people who move abroad… and the people who don’t
What Sets People Who Move Abroad Apart from Those Who Don’t
Many people dream about moving abroad. However, only some follow through. So what is the real difference between people who move abroad and people who don’t?
It rarely comes down to luck, personality, or bravery. Instead, it comes down to mindset. Small choices, steady action, and comfort with uncertainty shape the gap between dreamers and movers.
The traits below show up again and again in people who actually take the leap.
1. Doers Believe Everything Is Figureoutable
Dreamers want a full plan before they begin. Movers, however, take a different path. They trust they can solve problems as they come up.
Because of that, they don’t wait for perfect clarity. Instead, they focus on one step at a time. As a result, the process becomes far less overwhelming.
2. Dreamers Overthink. Doers Take the Next Step.
Many movers never have a complete plan. Even so, they keep going. They choose the next small action, which builds momentum.
For example, they might research a visa, join an expat group, book a consultation, or talk to someone already abroad. Each simple step creates movement. Dreamers often stay stuck in information mode instead.
3. Movers Have Grit
Everyone faces obstacles. Paperwork delays, culture shock, and unexpected problems show up for almost every expat. Even so, movers continue. They expect challenges and move forward anyway.
This persistence creates progress. Over time, grit becomes one of the strongest differences between movers and non-movers.
4. Movers Are Comfortable Not Knowing Everything
Many movers use a simple mindset: “I don’t know what I don’t know, but I’m doing it anyway.”
They accept uncertainty rather than fight it. Because of that, they begin before they feel fully prepared. Confidence grows with each step they take.
5. Movers Protect the Dream
Sharing your plan too early can slow you down. People often project their fears, not your future.
Comments like:
“It isn’t safe,”
“You’re risking your career,” or
“Are you sure this is smart?”
can easily shake confidence.
For this reason, movers share their plans only with people who will support them, especially early on.
6. They Curate the Voices They Listen To
Movers choose who they allow in their decision-making space. They look for people who are supportive or experienced. In contrast, dreamers often listen to anyone, even those who have never moved abroad.
Choosing the right voices keeps momentum strong.
7. It’s Not About Being Extroverted
Personality is not the deciding factor. Many introverts move abroad and thrive. They prepare, observe, and connect slowly.
Ultimately, intention and consistency matter more than extroversion.
8. Movers Are Willing to Break the Script
Many dreamers stay where they are because they follow a traditional life script. Movers question that script. Because of this, they design a life that matches what they truly want.
Their choices come from alignment, not pressure.
9. Movers Adopt a New Identity
Movers see themselves as people who take action. They tell themselves:
“I’ll figure it out,”
and
“I’m someone who follows through.”
Identity shapes behavior. Once the identity shifts, the actions follow.
10. They Trust the Adventure Is Worth the Unknown
Movers choose growth over comfort. Even when challenges appear, they trust the experience will offer new skills and a wider view of the world. Consequently, the unknown feels useful rather than frightening.
11. Movers Create Evidence for Themselves
Dreamers wait to feel ready. Movers build readiness.
They collect small wins such as:
“I found an expat group,”
“I learned my visa steps,”
or
“I spoke to someone abroad.”
These moments prove the dream is possible. Over time, this evidence builds belief.
12. Movers Know Fear Doesn’t Mean Stop
Fear is normal. Dreamers treat fear as a warning. Movers treat fear as a sign of growth.
They think, “This feels new, so of course I’m nervous.”
Even with fear, they keep moving. They do not wait for fear to disappear.
13. Movers Prioritize the Life They Want
Default living keeps people stuck. Movers ask themselves what they truly want.
They question the usual script:
Buy a house.
Work 9–5 forever.
Travel only in retirement.
Dreamers often avoid change because they fear disappointing others. Movers, however, choose alignment over approval.
14. Movers Don’t Get Stuck in Research Paralysis
Dreamers drown in information. Movers simplify. They choose a country, pick a visa, set a timeline, and move forward.
Because they value momentum over perfection, they gain clarity through action.
15. Movers Build a Future Identity
This mindset shift shapes everything. Movers ask questions like:
“What would Future Me do?”
“What story do I want to tell?”
They make decisions based on the life they want to live, not the life they currently have.
Bonus: Movers Don’t Tie Their Worth to a Job Title
Dreamers often worry their career will collapse. Movers believe their career can evolve. Skills transfer. Opportunities appear in new places. Because of that belief, they feel freer to explore.
Final Thoughts
The difference between people who move abroad and people who don’t comes down to consistent, imperfect action. Movers take steps before they feel ready. They build confidence through small wins and choose the life they want instead of the expectations around them.
Ask yourself:
Which traits do you already have?
Which ones do you want to grow?
If you want help choosing your next step, start with the Which European City Should You Move To? quiz.
If you want clarity on your next step, start with the Which European City Should You Move To Quiz
Struggling with guilt around your move abroad? Episode 96 explains where that guilt comes from and how to overcome it. Episode 96: Feeling Guilty About Moving Abroad — Why It Happens and How to Overcome It.
