Many of my friends said ‘how brave!’ I was to embark on this new adventure into the relatively unknown – to leave so much behind me – family, friends, a secure job – and start a new life. But at 25 years old I was ready to experience a new beginning, far away from the London ‘rat race’ that was beginning to engulf me. Even though I knew it would take me out of my ‘comfort zone’, I can honestly say that the Maltese way of life was quite a culture shock!
In 1985, the Malta that welcomed me to its shores was run on the lines of a protectionist state with trade barriers and custom restrictions which were so alien to my old existence in the booming and fun City of London. On the island I now found myself, it was practically unheard of for married women to remain within the labour force after their honeymoon and, as such, they were also unable to open a bank account without the authoritative signature of their husband –unheard of in 1985 UK!
Could I adapt to this new life? The wise saying ‘Look Before You Leap’ sprang to my mind on many occasions…..
……..but I did learn to culturally adapt, whilst retaining personal independence and ‘modern’values, because I believe this is a skill and spirit I possess. It was tough at times, and I invariably questioned my reasons for moving to such a relatively restrictive environment but, at the end of the day, it was all about setting and conquering my own challenges.
I often weighed up the advantages and disadvantages of what Malta could actually offer me and, I’m very pleased to say, that I did remain – for 10 years. I actually positively experienced far more than I bargained for, or imagined was possible, even beyond my wildest dreams – and, if for only those reasons, I am truly grateful.
Learning to adapt and embrace a new life, whatever your circumstances, can be extremely daunting for many of us. If you are resisting change, ask yourself what you are complaining about, resigned to or even afraid of. Listen to your self-reasoning, your passion for where you want to be, either physically or mentally, or even both, and commit to making that change.
Try it out, experience it and learn from it – you will be surprised at how it gives you a different perspective on many future areas of your life!