FOMO: What you really give up (and gain) when moving abroad

Thinking about moving abroad but worried about what you’ll miss back home? You’re not alone. Many people fear missing family events, friendships, traditions, and the everyday comforts of home. I’ve been there too. When I first considered leaving Texas, I was torn between the excitement of the new adventure of moving to London and the fear of missing out on life back home.

In this post, I’ll break down why this fear is normal, what you actually gain by moving abroad, and how to stay connected while embracing your new life.

Understanding the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

FOMO is a natural reaction to change. Our brains are wired to seek familiarity and resist the unknown. Cultural and societal expectations can also play a role—depending on where you’re from, staying close to home may be the norm. In Texas, for example, many people don’t leave. My dad used to joke, “You can live anywhere you want, as long as it’s in Texas.”

Social media only amplifies this fear. Seeing friends and family celebrating birthdays, holidays, and life milestones in real time can make you feel even more disconnected. But while you may miss some moments, moving abroad opens the door to experiences you wouldn’t have otherwise!

What You Gain by Moving Abroad

Instead of focusing on what you’re leaving behind, consider what you gain:

• New Experiences & Growth – Living abroad challenges you to become more independent, develop new skills, and see the world from a different perspective.
• Deeper Relationships – Distance can make relationships more intentional. When you do see family and friends, time together often feels more meaningful.
• Opportunities You Couldn’t Have Back Home – Moving abroad can open up career paths, lifestyle changes, and personal growth that wouldn’t have been possible if you stayed.
• Building a New Community – You’re not replacing your home community; you’re expanding it. You’ll meet people from different backgrounds, forming connections that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.

How to Stay Connected & Feel Involved While Living Abroad

Missing home is inevitable, but there are ways to stay connected:

• Plan Visits Intentionally – Instead of visiting on impulse, plan ahead for quality trips. Consider going home for major events or setting a schedule for visits. I once met someone who hadn’t been home in years and deeply regretted it—don’t let that be you.
• Leverage Technology – Regular video calls, group chats, and shared online activities can help you stay close.
• Start New Traditions – Find ways to bring familiar traditions into your new life or create new ones that blend your past and present.
• Give Yourself Permission to Miss Things – It’s okay to feel sad sometimes. Missing home doesn’t mean you made the wrong choice. It’s part of the process.

You will miss some things at home, but you’ll also miss out on what’s possible abroad if you don’t take the leap. The question is: What would you regret more—missing some events back home or never giving yourself the chance to experience life in a new country?

What’s your biggest FOMO fear about moving abroad? Send me a DM or email—I’d love to hear how you’re working through it.

Want to dive deeper into the journey of moving abroad? Check out my related posts: Top 4 Visas to Get a Job in Europe or How to Move to Another Country Permanently.