When we live across cultures, we meet amazing, diverse people. Still, forming lasting, true, or like-minded friendships can be hard. So much depends on our history, personality, location, language, role, life stage, and luck too.

keep CONNECTING with an open heart

During my 14 years abroad, I’ve found friends in all sorts of places: our apartment building, playgrounds, creative workshops, book clubs — even on the tram and in the street! But there have also been times I’ve gone to places, met people, and felt lonelier than I ever have alone.

Sometimes, it’s been like weaving a web that keeps getting blown away.

But it’s worth it to keep reaching out with an open heart, because friends can make life more fun and meaningful, no matter where we are.

6 WAYS TO BE A TRUE FRIEND TO YOURSELF AND OTHERS

I’ve learned that the most important friendship begins with yourself: enjoying your own company, discovering what you value, and becoming the kind of friend you wish you had. This makes it easier to build meaningful relationships with others too.

From the images below you can see my notes on how to be a true friend both to yourself as well as for others:

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PS. Thank you friends here and elsewhere – you mean the world to me❣️

Join #mayonthemove2025  Global Community on Instagram and online meetings. Discussions on topics related to intercultural life / life abroad with people from around the world.