Breaking Free from Convention: How Moving Abroad Transformed My Life
I still remember the day I arrived in the Netherlands at 17, feeling an insatiable desire to live overseas. But despite multiple attempts, I found myself stuck in a cycle of conformity, pressured by society, family, and my own expectations to follow a traditional path. It wasn’t until I took a leap of faith at 35, quitting my job and moving to Spain, that I discovered a new sense of purpose.
Leaving Behind the Labels
In the United States, I had internalized labels like “marketer” and “job hopper,” shaped by the belief that success meant climbing the corporate ladder. But in Spain, I was free to shed these labels and explore new interests. I started a blog, began public speaking, and organized events in Madrid, which helped me build a community-based business. The anonymity of my new environment gave me the space to figure out who I wanted to become.
Financial Freedom and a Gentler Rhythm
My cost of living in Spain was significantly lower than in the U.S. My rent, including utilities, was just 540 Euro ($604 at the time), compared to $1,440 for my mortgage alone back home. This financial freedom allowed me to take risks, pursue creative projects, and pivot my career. With lower rent, affordable healthcare, and more disposable income, I had the flexibility to invest in myself and dream bigger.
A Slower Pace of Life
Life in Spain had a gentler rhythm that I quickly embraced. Dinners turned into long, lingering conversations, and spontaneous meetups replaced the overscheduled social calendars I was used to. Weekends were for leisure, and I found myself with shorter work hours, fewer obligations, and more energy left at the end of the day. This downtime became a catalyst for self-discovery, allowing me to ask myself questions I’d long avoided: What do I really want? What excites me? What kind of life do I want to create?
Unleashing Creativity and Self-Discovery
In Spain, I discovered a newfound sense of creativity and inspiration. I channeled this energy into exciting projects, including a vegetarian meal-prep experiment, an online and in-person community for digital creatives, and eventually, my own business. Looking back, I’m amazed at how far I’ve come since taking the leap to move to Spain.
A New Way to Live
By starting fresh, I found not just a new place to live, but a new way to live. I’ve rebuilt my career, discovered new passions, and cultivated a sense of self that was impossible to access in America. Today, I’m proud to be the founder of She Hit Refresh, a community and resource platform that helps women aged 30+ move abroad and transform their lives.
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