The 2019 is approaching – it is time for New Year’s resolutions! I don’t know why, but I always get excited for the New Year. In reality nothing magically changes over the night from the 31st to the 1st, but somehow I feel fresh, inspired and thrilled to start a new adventure. We have been in Japan for a year now, so it is about time to own our ‘expat’ status, embrace it, and act on it. Therefore, here is my take on the Expat’s New Year Resolutions:
1. I will learn a language of my new country.
If you are quite good at the language of your new country already – great – but I bet there are some things you still could work on and develop. I am not starting learning Japanese from zero, but I have a history of some resilience issues when it comes to learning Japanese. This year will be different, I will not stop. I have prepared a strategy, and will implement it in the New Year.
2. I will visit some places I have not seen in my new country yet.
Exploring your surroundings is very exciting at the beginning, but usually takes a back seat when life becomes more structured around work and everyday tasks. Being in another country is a great opportunity to learn, explore and have new adventures, so do not miss out. Make a list of places to visit, and plan your first trip today.
3. I will dive into the culture.
There are so many experiences you could have in your new country. Japan has tea ceremony, flower arrangement, dance, and kimono fitting, to mention just a few I would like to learn more about. The more I learn about the culture, the easier it is to understand people and why the things are organised here as they are. The more I understand, the more at home I feel here.
4. I will learn to cook a local dish.
This one is a must. There is always at least one dish you love, but cannot cook (yet). Some delicious foods are pretty simple to cook if you know how. However, Japanese cuisine is so rich that it is hard to figure out where to start. Signing for cooking lesson can be a good shortcut and a great experience. Also, cooking like locals is usually the freshest and cheapest way to cook.
What are your New Year’s resolutions? Would you add something to this list?
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.