All during our lifetime, it is a question of adapting. As children, as we grow, we have to adapt to our ever-changing body, to the language and education we receive, the different perception of people, the environment, the economic and political context of our social and family network.

Once we are adult, married, working at a job, owing a house, creating a family, we think that a part of our life is done, that we have somehow started mastering something.

 The international expat experience Sometimes it is good to challenge ourselves. As a matter of fact, nothing is as it seems. A new dimension is added as we make our way through life in the international world.

 As an expat, you know too well that nothing is easily won. You have to adapt to the language, the environment, the different perception of people, to other bodies (people are taller, or smaller, may be of a different color), to the economic and political frame.

Doesn’t it remind you of something?
 Growing is a lifelong process that begins in childhood and continues. As hard as it is to imagine, it is as if the whole process of adaptation is starting again no matter your age.

You may then feel like a small child, helpless, dependent on others. The problem is you are an adult, people are expecting you to find your own way rapidly. They just cannot imagine what you are going through! Besides, you may not allow yourself to express your fears, your difficulties, your doubts. You are not a child, eventhough you feel like one.

Then, the question is how to preserve your proper energy level, to quickly find the right and accurate information, to be proactive and constructive. Nobody said this would be easy. And nobody said you should do it all alone.

Why don’t you consider it as a great opportunity to experience something different?

Grand Dire is a coaching and training service that can help you grow and find your own way through the expatriation process by individual coaching, discussion forums and/or cultural seminars. Who knows, once you start adapting, you may start to adopt France and France may adopt you.

 You will never be the same: Based on renewed confidence and understanding you will begin to love what you feared, to trust yourself, and to grow as part of any new culture.

 An insight that is uniquely your own: A transformation of heart, mind and body.

We only understand the things that one tames…said the fox. It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye”. (The Little Prince of Saint Exupéry)