Lost, but Not Forever: Embracing Change Across Borders

Moving to another country was supposed to be the start of an adventure. A new chapter. A bold leap. But as the weeks turned into months, the initial excitement faded into something I couldn’t quite describe—a mix of loneliness, distress and a constant longing for the familiar.

When I landed in Sweden, the stillness struck me. The difference in language, the culture and the endless gray skies of winter felt both beautiful and intimidating. It wasn’t anyone’s fault, really. No one had promised that starting over would be easy, and deep down, I knew the challenges were part of the deal. But that didn’t make it any less overwhelming.

The Quiet Realization

The realization crept in slowly, like an uninvited guest. It wasn’t triggered by any big event. No dramatic failure or crushing moment. It came one afternoon as I stood in the middle of a bustling grocery store, trying to decode a label written in a language I hadn’t yet mastered.

A wave of exhaustion hit me. Not just physical, but emotional. It wasn’t about the milk I couldn’t find or the directions I couldn’t follow. It was the weight of constantly feeling like an outsider in a world that seemed to spin effortlessly for everyone else.

Feeling Lost

This wasn’t a problem you could point fingers at. The people were kind, the streets spotless, the systems remarkably efficient. Yet, I longed for the little things back home: the effortless laughter of friends who understood me without translation, the familiar comfort of my favorite meal and and the sense of security found in the presence of familiar faces.

Choosing to Thrive

That day in the grocery store, I realized I couldn’t keep going like this, that I want myself not just surviving, but truly living a life.

Finding Yourself Again: How to Navigate the Feeling of Being Lost

The following points are not just instructions, but small steps toward rediscovering your footing, finding peace in unfamiliar surroundings, and ultimately reclaiming your sense of self —something that helped me feel at home. If you’re tired of feeling disconnected or overwhelmed, these tips are here to guide you:

1. Create Familiarity in the Unfamiliar

Start small. Bring pieces of your old life into your new one. Cook your favorite meal, play the music that makes you feel at home, or decorate your space with things that tell your story.

2. Build Connection Through Curiosity

Instead of shrinking away from the unfamiliar, lean into it. Ask questions, learn the language, try the local customs. You don’t have to be perfect; your effort is the bridge. Join local events, like outdoor picnics in summer, volunteer at local events and find groups that share common interest like art or study groups.

3. Embrace the Unknown as a Teacher

Each challenge is a chance to grow. That confusing label? It’s a step toward fluency. That awkward first conversation? It’s a seed for a new friendship.

4. Nurture Your Inner World

When the external world feels shaky, turn inward. Journaling, meditation, or even a quiet walk can help you find clarity and reconnect with your strength.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

Mastering a phrase, navigating the transit system, making someone smile—these tiny victories are the building blocks of a new life.

6. The Weather’s Tough—But It Has Its Own Magic

I won’t sugarcoat it—winter here is no joke! It was a challenge adapting to the long, dark days, especially during the colder months. But as I experienced my first fika (the beloved coffee break ritual), with candles softly flickering and cinnamon buns warm from the oven, I felt the warmth of Swedish coziness(mys).

7. Navigating the Language: The Key to Connection

Swedish isn’t the easiest language to learn, but every new phrase I picked up opened another door. My first few “tack så mycket” (thank you very much) were whispered with uncertainty. But as I practiced and immersed myself, people noticed and encouraged me with smiles, a nod of approval, or even a kind, slow-paced conversation.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to speak up. Locals appreciate when newcomers try to learn Swedish.

8. Embrace the Culture of Quite

When I landed in Sweden, the stillness struck me. Public spaces here have a subtle hush, a quiet that I wasn’t used to. In my home country, conversation fills the air like the aroma of fresh spices; here, I learned the beauty of silence. It was a slow, respectful quiet—one that eventually felt comforting, giving me space to think, reflect, and enjoy my own company in ways I hadn’t before.

Today, sitting quietly with myself, taking a long stroll by the beach, and simply breathing in the stillness, has become a peaceful ritual I eagerly look forward to.

Looking back, I realize that feeling lost wasn’t a failure; it was a transition. It was the messy middle of a story that was still unfolding. You’re not just surviving; you’re growing. You’re becoming someone who can thrive anywhere, someone who knows how to find their way—even when the map isn’t clear.
This journey was mine. If you’re on this path, remember: take it step by step. Every small adaptation, every new friendship, and every moment of warmth will bring you closer to making Sweden not just a new home, but a cherished one.