Creating Connection in a Disconnected World: Thriving Abroad Through Meaningful Relationships

Life abroad can be exhilarating, but it’s also full of moments where connection feels fleeting. Moving to a new city, starting a new job, or navigating cultural differences can leave even the most outgoing international professionals feeling isolated. Add the holiday season into the mix—when family, familiar routines, and childhood traditions are so present—and that sense of distance can feel even sharper.

The good news is that loneliness doesn’t have to define your experience :) Research consistently shows that meaningful social connections improve mental health, resilience, and even physical well-being. There are practical, energising ways to build relationships while also feeling comfortable in your own company.

When we were young, friendships often formed naturally—through school, neighbourhoods, or shared routines. As adults, we need to be intentional. Studies in adult social psychology highlight that while forming friendships may require more effort later in life, the quality of these relationships tends to be deeper and more fulfilling.

Not all connections are equal... Research shows that being around supportive, positive people enhances well-being, while toxic or draining relationships can increase stress and reduce life satisfaction. It’s healthy to invest in relationships that energise you—and step back from those that consistently pull you down. That doesn’t mean excluding others just because they think differently on minor points; it’s about recognising who truly contributes to your happiness and growth.

Being open about the challenges of expat life invites reciprocity. Sharing your feelings of uncertainty—or the funny mishaps that come with adjusting to a new culture—allows others to relate, creating trust and deeper bonds. Studies in social psychology indicate that vulnerability in friendships fosters intimacy and strengthens connections over time.

The festive season can amplify feelings of distance from family and old traditions. Instead of comparing or resisting, create your own meaningful rituals: virtual dinners, volunteer activities, or inviting friends—new or old—into your own little celebrations. These actions don’t replace home, but they bring warmth and a sense of belonging to where you are.

Connection thrives when it’s ongoing. That’s why I created the Thriving Abroad Circle, a monthly space where international professionals share experiences, ideas, and support. Our next session is Wednesday, 27 November 2025, and it’s the perfect opportunity to explore strategies for building meaningful friendships, sharing festive rituals, and connecting with peers who understand life abroad.

More info and how to reserve your spot for 27 November here.

Not sure? Here’s a short list to help you choose:

• Send a note, message, or call to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.

• Invite a colleague or new acquaintance for coffee or a casual chat.

• Join a local or online community event that interests you.

• Create a personal ritual that brings you comfort and joy, even on your own.

• Reflect on your relationships and consider which ones truly lift you up—and which may need some healthy distance.

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Living internationally doesn’t mean being alone. With small, intentional actions, the courage to choose—and sometimes let go of—relationships wisely, openness, and the ability to enjoy your own company, you can create a web of connection that sustains you through the holidays and far beyond.