So my life changed drastically half a year ago when my fiancée and girlfriend of 8 years broke up with me. It forced me to reflect deeply on the choices I’ve made and where I am currently in life. As painful as the experience was, it also felt like a “second chance”, sort of a wake-up call to try out the things I’d been considering throughout my entire 20s.
Right now, I’m in a stage of self-discovery. I’m trying to better understand myself, my strengths, weaknesses, and the things I might regret not pursuing later in life. I still feel relatively young, but I’m also aware that my energy, stamina, and mental sharpness aren’t what they used to be. Or that they are kind of declining faster. If I want to take a big risk or make a major leap, I feel like now is the time.
I work in cybersecurity, have a master’s degree, and live in Eastern Europe. My job is relatively stable but poorly paid, and I’ve definitely been stuck in my comfort zone, living in the same city since I started studying here. I’ve been seriously considering a move either to the U.S., where I’ve been a few times for work and felt inspired by the energy and opportunities. I feel like, with it being such a technical and business hub, it could really benefit my career. Of course, I’m aware of the other aspects of U.S. society and the workforce, but I still believe that if I got lucky, it could be a great step forward. I’m also considering other European countries like Germany, England, or Denmark.
I’m 32 now, and after spending quite a lot of money furnishing my apartment, I’ll need to save for at least a year before making any major move. What I’m really curious about is have any of you made a similar leap in your 30s? How did it turn out for you? Would you do it again?
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I moved abroad at 22, 27 and 36 (a different country each time). I never regretted it because it’s what I wanted to do and yes, I’d do it again. You have to be ready to rebuild many parts of your life because they’re not portable (like social/professional networks).