Leaving The US: Was It The Right Decision? One Woman's Story

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 28, 2025

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Why She Left: Unveiling the Push Factors

Sarah's decision to leave the US wasn't impulsive. It stemmed from a culmination of factors that, for many Americans, are becoming increasingly prevalent reasons for emigrating. The high cost of living, particularly in major US cities like New York and San Francisco, played a significant role. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the increasing cost of living is a major driver of emigration from the US.

• High cost of living in the US: Sarah recalls struggling to make ends meet in her previous life in Los Angeles, where even basic necessities felt increasingly unaffordable. Rent, healthcare, and everyday expenses seemed insurmountable.

• Dissatisfaction with the US healthcare system: The exorbitant cost and complexities of the US healthcare system were another significant contributing factor. Sarah shared stories of friends and family members facing financial ruin due to medical bills, a fear that fueled her desire for a more accessible and affordable system.

• Political climate and social issues: The prevailing political climate and deeply divisive social issues in the US also played a role in Sarah's decision. She felt a growing sense of disillusionment and a desire for a more peaceful and inclusive society.

• Desire for a better work-life balance: The demanding work culture in the US, often characterized by long hours and limited vacation time, contributed to Sarah's burnout. She yearned for a more balanced lifestyle that prioritized her well-being.

• Seeking new adventures and cultural experiences: A lifelong dream of exploring different cultures and broadening her horizons finally motivated Sarah to take action. The desire for personal growth and new experiences proved a powerful catalyst.

The Challenges of Relocating: Navigating the Transition

Leaving the US and starting a new life abroad is rarely seamless. Sarah's journey was no exception. The transition was fraught with challenges, common to many expats:

• Visa and immigration hurdles: Navigating the complexities of visa applications and immigration processes proved to be a significant hurdle. Sarah spent months gathering documents, attending appointments, and dealing with bureaucratic delays.

• Finding suitable housing and employment in a new country: Securing suitable housing and employment in a foreign country presented another set of obstacles. Understanding local regulations, navigating cultural differences, and finding a job that matched her skills and experience took time and effort.

• Language barriers and cultural adjustment: The language barrier initially posed a significant challenge, particularly in day-to-day interactions. Adjusting to a different culture, with its own social norms and customs, also took time and patience. Sarah experienced moments of significant "cultural shock."

• Homesickness and feelings of isolation: Being far from family and friends led to periods of homesickness and feelings of isolation. Building a new support network and finding a sense of belonging in her new community took time.

• Dealing with administrative tasks like banking and healthcare in a new system: Setting up bank accounts, understanding the healthcare system, and managing other administrative tasks in a foreign language and unfamiliar system added to the stress of relocating.

Life After Leaving the US: A New Perspective

Despite the challenges, Sarah's life after leaving the US has been overwhelmingly positive. She found a fulfilling new life:

• Improved quality of life: Sarah reports a significant improvement in her overall quality of life. The reduced stress, increased leisure time, and enhanced sense of well-being are undeniable.

• Lower cost of living: The cost of living in her new home in Portugal is considerably lower, allowing her greater financial freedom.

• Enhanced work-life balance: She now enjoys a better work-life balance, prioritizing her personal well-being and spending more quality time with her loved ones.

• New relationships and friendships: She has built a strong support network of friends and acquaintances, forming meaningful connections within her expat community.

• Personal growth and self-discovery: The experience of leaving the US and adapting to a new culture has spurred significant personal growth and self-discovery.

• Exploration of new cultures and travel opportunities: Living in Europe has opened doors to explore new cultures and travel to other parts of the continent, experiences she cherishes deeply.

Was It the Right Decision? Reflection and Assessment

Looking back, Sarah unequivocally states that leaving the US was the right decision for her. While acknowledging the initial challenges of international relocation, she emphasizes the positive transformation in her life.

• Weighing the pros and cons: She carefully weighs the difficulties she faced against the significant improvements in her well-being, financial security, and overall quality of life.

• Long-term goals and achievements: Sarah has achieved several of her long-term goals, including establishing a stable life abroad, pursuing personal passions, and building a supportive network of friends.

• Regret or satisfaction: She expresses no regrets about her decision and feels immense satisfaction with her new life.

• Lessons learned: The experience has taught her resilience, adaptability, and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being.

• Advice for others considering leaving the US: Her advice is to thoroughly research potential destinations, carefully plan the relocation process, and be prepared for both challenges and rewards.

Conclusion

Sarah's story illustrates the complexities of leaving the US, highlighting both the difficulties and rewards of expatriate life. Her journey underscores the importance of careful consideration, thorough planning, and a realistic understanding of the challenges involved in international relocation. It is a deeply personal decision, with no one-size-fits-all answer.

Is leaving the US the right decision for you? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. If you are considering leaving the US, remember to prioritize thorough research and planning, understanding the unique aspects of expat life and international living. Begin your journey toward a potentially fulfilling new chapter by researching visa requirements and connecting with other expats.