self-reflection before moving abroad

I sat down and realized that I should write about a topic on what Every Kenyan Should Consider before and even after planning to go to look for greener pasture abroad

Moving abroad is a life-changing decision. The allure of better jobs, higher pay, quality education, or simply the idea of a new life can be exciting. But before you pack your bags and book that ticket, pause, and reflect, relocation isn’t just a physical move; it’s a mental, emotional, and financial shift. Many Kenyans rush into migration hoping for greener pastures only to feel stuck, lost, or disappointed.

Here’s a practical and honest self-reflection guide before making that big move abroad that will make you open your eyes as you look forward to follow your advancement of your career abroad

1. What’s Driving My Desire to Leave?

You need to ask you self categorically on whether you are running away from hardship or moving toward opportunity?, is it pressure from friends, family, or social media?, do I have realistic expectations?

After this question so now note this that not every problem in Kenya is solved by going abroad. If you’re broke, frustrated, or uncertain, those feelings may follow you, just with different weather.

2. do I Have Skills That Can Compete in a Foreign Market?

A foreign country won’t always recognize your Kenyan degree or hustle. Ask yourself what practical or digital skills do I have? Can I survive on my own without relying on others? Have I researched what qualifications are required in that country?

Remember always you don’t have in-demand skills yet, start building them here. Learn online, take local gigs, or enroll in training programs like tech space masters where we will give you competent skills

3. Am I Financially Prepared?

Even if you’re moving to study, you’ll need money, before, during, and after the move you have to consider this, do I have enough to cover initial housing, transport, and food?What if my job offer falls through or my sponsor fails?Do I understand the currency, cost of living, and taxes?

Always do a reality check many people get stuck doing “survival jobs” abroad, not because they lack ambition, but because they didn’t plan financially.

4. Am I Mentally and Emotionally Ready?

Relocating means starting over, sometimes from zero. No familiar faces. No Swahili. No ugali on the roadside.You need to sit yourself down and ask How will I handle loneliness or culture shock? Am I prepared to work in silence while others back home think I’m “balling”? what if things don’t go as planned, will I adapt or crash?

This is the actual truth many migrants fall into depression due to isolation, pressure to succeed, and lack of support. Build emotional strength before you go.

5. What Am I Leaving Behind?

Yes, you may gain opportunities abroad, but what do you sacrifice? Relationships with family or a partner? connection to your culture, language, or values? Community responsibilities (parents, siblings, business)?you have to know that not all growth happens overseas. Some of your biggest opportunities may exist right here at home, just untapped.

6. Do I Have a Long-Term Plan?

Going abroad “just to see” is a gamble. Ask yourself precisely what’s my 3–5-year goal? Do I want to settle there permanently or come back home? How will I build wealth or experience while there? Because if you move without a plan, you risk floating, living month-to-month with no real progress.

Now here is where we will need to bring the mirror to do it’s job ask yourself some Self-Reflection Questions Before Moving Abroad:

Ask Yourself Why It Matters, what problem am I trying to solve? Avoid escapism, what skills do I bring to the table? Survival + employability, Can I afford the unexpected? Financial safety net, who is my support system abroad? Mental and emotional stability what’s my exit or growth strategy? Vision beyond the visa

✈️ Moving Abroad Isn’t a Shortcut, It’s a Shift

Life abroad can offer amazing opportunities. But only if you’re grounded, prepared, and realistic. Don’t move just because others did. Move because it aligns with your personal goals, skills, and purpose. And if you choose to stay and build here, know that Kenya has potential too, for those willing to dig deeper, skill up, and build something of their own.