This is a long, long overdue post.

I wanted to write this post 9 months ago when I left New Zealand, but have been procrastinating because there was so much going on in my life.

Ben moved to Melbourne in May last year for his new career, and I finally left New Zealand to join him in December.

In the first 6 months since I left New Zealand, I visited 6 countries / about 15 cities or towns, including the U.S., Hong Kong, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore. When I finally settled down in Australia in April, I was very busy preparing for my exams and looking for a job. Though I enjoy my new adventure, I feel a bit overwhelmed at the same time.

 

the process of moving abroad is not easy

First of all, I had to go through all the tedious processes again, such as open a bank account, tax file number, Medicare Card, police certificates, do paperwork for visa application, etc… it felt like a never-ending process and these little things can be very frustrating sometimes.

Then, I had to look for a new job from scratch. It takes time and effort to find a suitable permanent job, but before I find one, another exam is approaching. In addition, I have to learn and adapt to the new job market and culture of Australia.

Imagine when you were used to a place and made it your home, and then you had to move to a new place and start again – it is hard to describe the emotion attached to the old home. I do not know what will happen in the future and the feeling of uncertainty is stressful.

As I had to go through many changes, I hope to have a better lifestyle because I gave up what I had behind. I would appreciate the patience. I believe what I have to go through now is only temporary.

 

The end of one journey…

Why did it take me so long to write this post? I said because there was so much going on in my life, but maybe it was just an excuse. I think the main reason may be because I was too reluctant to let go of New Zealand.

I miss New Zealand already.

But, instead of moaning what I have lost, why not look at what I have gained? The opportunity to live in Australia is precious. I keep reminding myself of the passion that I had when I moved to New Zealand as the whole experience was priceless.

I want to write this post because it feels like a proper closure for my journey in New Zealand.

The new chapter of my life just begins – by following someone I love and settle down in Australia. I believe this will be another turning point in my life, and so there will be a change to my blog.

 

…leads to another journey. From now on, I will have a new blog of Opposite Journey.

Not only did I have a new header image for my blog, but I am also changing the focus of my blog to my life abroad. Though, I will still write about my travel stories and some trivial things (because this blog is my voice!).

I also want to embrace minimalism and keep my blog to the minimum and only write what is important. I want to be more confident and fulfilled by keeping this blog.

I endeavour to write both positive and negative stuff because I want to keep it as true as possible, which might be insightful to any newcomers to Australia.

 

To be brave and passionate again

When I took a leap of faith and came to New Zealand on working holiday, I would have never thought that I will end up in Australia.

Sometimes, I feel like I am still that little girl who was sheltered by my family and friends. But in a blink of eyes, I am already in my 30s.

As much as I hope to be recognised and taken care of, I have to learn to stand out for myself. I do not want to pray that it will turn out just fine, I have to fight for whatever I want… because nobody will care for myself more than I do.

I have learned that there is never a perfect time to get ready and settle down. I have to go with the flow and seize the opportunities. Then, appreciate that I am brave enough to make the move. 👣