How to Get Clear on the Life You Actually Want

When you’re dreaming of moving abroad, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement—new cities, beaches, cultures, and possibilities.

But before you book that flight or pack a single bag, it’s important to pause and ask yourself:

What kind of life am I really trying to create?

Too often, people leave behind a life that doesn’t fit—only to recreate the same problems in a different location. The key to avoiding that trap? Getting really clear on what you want first.

This week, we’re talking vision-setting: your lifestyle, your values, and your money goals.

Why Clarity Comes Before the Move

Moving abroad is a powerful life reset. But without a clear vision, it can quickly turn into an escape instead of an elevation.

When you take the time to reflect on your ideal life—not just geographically, but emotionally, spiritually, financially—you’ll make decisions from a place of intention, not impulse.

Step 1: Define Your Ideal Day

Start simple. Ask yourself:

• Where do I wake up?

• What do I want to see when I look out the window?

• What does my morning look like?

• How do I feel throughout the day?

• Who am I spending time with?

• What kind of work (if any) am I doing?

Write it all down—no judgment, no “shoulds.” Let it flow.

This vision becomes your North Star. If a country, job, or opportunity doesn’t align with it, it’s not the right fit.

Step 2: Clarify Your Core Values

Values are the foundation of a fulfilling life. Use this simple prompt to get started:

“I feel happiest and most at peace when ________.”

Then identify the values behind those feelings—like freedom, creativity, connection, security, adventure, simplicity, or community.

Once you name your top 3–5 values, decision-making becomes so much easier. You’ll naturally gravitate toward places and people that support who you truly are.

Step 3: Set Your Money Goals (and Lifestyle Budget)

Let’s talk numbers. Ask yourself:

• What does “financial freedom” mean to me?

• What’s the minimum income I need to live my ideal lifestyle abroad?

• What am I willing to sacrifice—or not?

• Do I want to work full-time, part-time, or not at all?

Then, create a simple budget based on your lifestyle vision (housing, food, transportation, wellness, travel, savings). This will help you choose a country or region that aligns with both your dreams and your financial reality.

Step 4: Create a Personal Vision Statement

Now that you’ve explored your ideal day, your values, and your financial vision, wrap it all up in a personal mission or vision statement.

Example:

“I want to live a peaceful, creative life in a walkable beach town where I can work part-time, eat well, and have time for my passions.”

Keep this statement somewhere visible. It will ground you every step of the way.

Final Thought: You Don’t Need Permission

Your ideal life is valid—even if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
Getting clear on what you want gives you the power to create it, instead of settling for what others expect.

So before you make your big move, ask yourself:

“Is the life I’m building truly mine?”

If the answer is yes—you’re already on the right path.