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As an expat guy in Singapore, you might be so taken by your new life that you find yourself saying, “I’m not sure how I’ll ever go back”. But away from the thrill of locating overseas, it’s essential that you remain mindful of your wellbeing.
First, give yourself a big pat on the back. You’ve likely juggled a new job in an unfamiliar work culture and anchored in the Singapore expat community. However, don’t underestimate the whirlwind of changes that take place as you settle into this switched-on and sleepless city.
Facing challenges
The Lion City is busy, so you may be unaware at how your role as a person – which may include being a husband and/or father – may have shifted.
If you’ve employed a helper, your usual home duties might be redundant (it can hurt when nobody appreciates your ironing anymore). You might find yourself facing new challenges, perhaps supporting your spouse in a new role, sending kids to an international school, or striving to help your child preserve their cultural identity and values as they navigate adolescence in a diverse and often affluent student community.
These might feel minor, but don’t underestimate how a few extra business lunches and after-work drinks can impact your usual fitness routine. Throw in a few more coffees and screentime, and potentially disrupted sleep patterns can undermine your focus and resilience.
Who am I now?
Changes can stack up, and the initial excitement of a new country can turn into feeling overwhelmed.
You might start thinking, “What kind of a person am I now?” or “Is my identity just my ever-changing career?” These are healthy questions to ask, but the answers we feed ourselves play a big part in our wellness.
For example, when we hit an unexpected obstacle, does our inner dialogue remind us of challenges we’ve tackled before? Do we remember that we wouldn’t be living overseas if we didn’t have a sense of adventure and grit? We need to give ourselves compassion and celebrate our achievements.
Just as athletes rely on coaches for peak performance, expat men can benefit from professional support. It can be a game-changer, helping you to unlock your full potential with practical, personalised strategies. Whether you’re looking to boost your resilience, improve relationships, or better support your family, the right support can turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
At The Counselling Place, we specialise in helping expatriates navigate life changes. New team member, Nicholas Smith, brings a fresh perspective as an Australian father of two with nearly two decades of experience across Asia.
Whether you connect with Nicholas or another of our counsellors, you’ll find personalised and practical strategies tailored to expat life. Take that step towards thriving with us.
