Author Archives: Jess Gosling

Settling in: Part 4 Building Communities

I thought I’d include one of my photos here, the yoga class I attend in my new location. Several of these yogis also attend my pilates group, which I established in my home. In my opinion, this is one of the most important steps to settling a new location: building a community. It is importantContinue reading “Settling in: Part 4 Building Communities”

Settling in: Part 3 Building your home

With the rush and busyness of the first few days, which roll into weeks, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself and your needs. This can be compounded if you are also settling in your family to a new location, home and school. In my book I highlight small changes you can make to ensureContinue reading “Settling in: Part 3 Building your home”

Settling in: Part 2 – Missing loved ones

You’ve moved across the world: new home, new workplace, new environment. Initially it can feel really exciting. You may make connections quickly or not. Either way, it’s likely that sooner or later you will miss your loved ones: family, old friends and even ex-colleagues. I am in week 2 of my move, less than aContinue reading “Settling in: Part 2 – Missing loved ones”

Settling in: Part 1

Overwhelmed/disorientated/unsure/uncomfortable…normal feelings at the start of the move! It can be the most disorientating and overwhelming feeling to be taking on a new job, in a new country, and finding a new home. This is my first year of stepping down from joining an international school, to help my family relocate. However, the feelings ofContinue reading “Settling in: Part 1”

Subsequent Relocation: Is it any easier?

For those of you heading towards the departure date, how do you feel? I am now on my sixth overseas relocation (seven if you count a stint in California as a student). But I’ve got to say, except for knowing what to take with me and put in place before I go, the feeling ofContinue reading “Subsequent Relocation: Is it any easier?”

Preparing for Relocation: again

“The only thing that really worries me at the minute is the flight”, my daughter shared with me this morning. Always the problem-solver, this was easily rectified by showing her the aircraft walk through and entertainment choices. Now she is excited. But with 16 days left to fly, my worries are very different. I willContinue reading “Preparing for Relocation: again”

[Insert country here] is not for everyone

I have just completed a two year teaching placement in Warsaw, Poland. As Europe is often seen as a ‘top’ international destination, why did I chose to leave after completing my contract? Simply, I never felt the country was a ‘good fit’ for me or my family. Having spent more than a decade in Asia,Continue reading “[Insert country here] is not for everyone”

First quarter of 2023: A time to reflect and learn

First and foremost, a quick shout out to teachers now starting their Easter break! I hope you enjoy a peaceful and well-deserved rest. If you are moving abroad this year, take the time to check out my chapters on prior preparation before the move, and how to adjust to your new location. Believe me, itContinue reading “First quarter of 2023: A time to reflect and learn”

2023: Seeking and Responding to Surprises

I thought I’d start with this image: more than 100 locks of love secured and promised. How often do we promise ourselves something, which reflects our love for ourselves? I’m guessing, if you are like me, practically never! This picture was just one I snapped as I walked around Gdansk, this Christmas break. Here isContinue reading “2023: Seeking and Responding to Surprises”