Living Abroad, Finding Yourself

This is a book for anyone who has moved or is about to move beyond their home country.  Helena Andre explores the six psychological stages every expatriate experiences — from the initial departure to the often-complex process of returning home. 

In a warm and conversational style, Helena blends personal storytelling, insights from fellow expatriates, and contributions from recognised experts in intercultural communication and expatriation, to offer practical help and support for anyone facing the challenges of living abroad.

In the words of Liza Miezejeski, Helena “has filled these pages with tools and wisdom that will empower, energize, and inspire you”.
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CONTENTS
PART 1: PREPARING FOR DEPARTURE 
Introduction: the emotional journey of leaving 
Chapter 1. The five psychological stages of starting anew 
Chapter 2. Practical preparations for departures  
Chapter 3. Navigating relationships and emotional balance 
Chapter 4. Comfort, learning and panic zones 
Chapter 5. Conclusion: trust the process 
PART 2: LEAVING: THE HONEYMOON PERIOD 
Chapter 6. Setting up the new chapter in your life 
Chapter 7. The “yes” period: saying yes to the unknown 
Chapter 8. Decoding cultural nuances: Geert Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory 
Chapter 9. Conclusion: the art of starting anew 
PART 3: FRUSTRATION 
Chapter 10. From magic to mirrors: when the honeymoon ends 
Chapter 11. Building pillars: relationships and belonging 
Chapter 12. Love across cultures: the trials and triumphs 
Chapter 13. Overwhelmed by options: the paradox of choice 
Chapter 14. Conclusion: from frustration to growth – turning challenges into belonging 
PART 4: ADJUSTMENT 
Chapter 15. Adjustment: the space between struggle and stability 
Chapter 16. The expat FOMO dilemma 
Chapter 17. People make places: building meaningful relationships 
Chapter 18. Sitting between two chairs: cultural identity and integration 
Chapter 19. Daring to dream – and taking control of your journey 
Chapter 20. Conclusion: the art of belonging without losing yourself 
PART 5: ACCEPTANCE AND REPEAT 
Chapter 21. When is acceptance reached? 
Chapter 22. The science of happiness: understanding our hormones 
Chapter 23. The expat archetypes – where do you fit?  
Chapter 24. The great return: closing a cycle, not an identity 
Chapter 25. Conclusion: acceptance as a continuous journey 
PART 6: PREPARING TO RETURN HOME 
Chapter 26. The emotional complexity of first returning home 
Chapter 27. Repatriation and reverse culture shock: the final expat challenge 
Chapter 28. Reconstructing identity: finding peace in uncertainty 
Chapter 29. Making the decision: should I stay or should I go? 
Chapter 30. Overcoming fear, judgement, and self-doubt 
Chapter 31. Conclusion: redefining home on your own terms 
Epilogue: Embracing change, finding home 

About the Author 

Helena Andre is a PhD researcher, career coach, facilitator, and well-being practitioner, specialising in emotional resilience, intercultural communication, and supporting expatriates through career transitions and identity shifts