DEAR HARRIETTE: I am currently facing a pivotal moment in my life. At 29 years old, I recently experienced job loss at a finance firm, leaving me grappling with the uncertainties that lie ahead.
A unique opportunity has emerged for me to venture into teaching overseas in Tokyo. The prospect of relocating to a foreign land, immersed in a new cultural milieu, and engaging in educational pursuits is undeniably alluring. Japan has always held a special place in my heart as a destination I yearned to explore, making this opportunity not only professionally enriching but also personally fulfilling.
However, amidst the allure of this new adventure, the fear of the unknown looms large. The stability of a familiar job and environment is slipping away, compounded by the added uncertainty of relocating to a foreign country.
I find myself torn between the thrill of embarking on a new adventure and the comfort of the familiar. Should I seize this chance to teach in Japan, embracing the potential for personal and professional development, or should I prioritize securing a new job in my homeland to maintain a sense of stability?
— New Adventure DEAR NEW ADVENTURE: Many individuals have ventured abroad following a job loss, seeking to broaden their horizons and embrace new opportunities.
If you are unencumbered by responsibilities tying you down, why not take the leap? This move doesn’t have to be permanent. It offers you a chance to gain invaluable experiences, forge new connections, and expand your worldview.
Traveling has a unique way of enriching your understanding of the world and humanity. Treat this opportunity as a gift, cherishing every moment. Approach it with the intention of excelling in your role while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Conduct thorough research to familiarize yourself with your destination and its way of life. Seek advice from friends who have visited or lived there, tapping into their insights and recommendations. If possible, leverage their connections to facilitate your transition.
Replace your apprehension with the belief that this journey will carve a significant chapter in your life story. Embrace this experience with optimism and watch as it unfolds.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a suggestion regarding your response to the individual whose cousin sought advice but failed to act upon it.
When Establishing Boundaries becomes a sounding board for their cousin’s grievances, perhaps a shift in approach is warranted. Instead of simply listening, they could prompt their cousin to contemplate their next steps post-sharing.
— Keep It Simple DEAR KEEP IT SIMPLE: Your suggestion is insightful, especially for initial instances. However, some individuals tend to repetitively recount their woes without taking action.
In such scenarios, Establishing Boundaries could gently inquire about the timeline for their proposed actions, nudging them towards accountability.
Harriette Cole, a lifestylist and the brains behind DREAMLEAPERS, a platform empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations. Queries can be directed to askharriette@ harriettecole.com or Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.