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-   -   Going it alone - scared to death! (https://britishexpats.com/forum/australia-54/going-alone-scared-death-280355/)

flying dutchman Jan 27th 2005 2:17 am

Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!

stephenwhite68 Jan 27th 2005 2:22 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!

Personally thats the bit i like the best...

Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Professional Princess Jan 27th 2005 2:43 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!


In my opinion, I think you should look at it this way:

You are about to enter one of the most exciting times of your life.

You will be going into a new culture, will have the opportunity to leave 'unwanted baggage' behind and embrace a new way of life.

Think of all the people that you will meet, new friends that may become best friends/good friends in the future.

You can reinvent yourself and tackle your fears and change various areas of your life.

A new job, a new home, a more relaxed way of living than what you are use to.

While it is sad that you have split up with your partner, there will be someone else out there for you and when the time is right, you will meet them.

Look on it as a chance to 'wipe the slate clean' and live your life the way you really want to.

Its normal to be scared and frightened but not many people are given a chance of a new life, so grab it with both hands.

So start planning your journey and remember that the best things in life, begin when you start looking forward to them.

Good luck.

flying dutchman Jan 27th 2005 3:10 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Professional Princess
In my opinion, I think you should look at it this way:

You are about to enter one of the most exciting times of your life.

You will be going into a new culture, will have the opportunity to leave 'unwanted baggage' behind and embrace a new way of life.

Think of all the people that you will meet, new friends that may become best friends/good friends in the future.

You can reinvent yourself and tackle your fears and change various areas of your life.

A new job, a new home, a more relaxed way of living than what you are use to.

While it is sad that you have split up with your partner, there will be someone else out there for you and when the time is right, you will meet them.

Look on it as a chance to 'wipe the slate clean' and live your life the way you really want to.

Its normal to be scared and frightened but not many people are given a chance of a new life, so grab it with both hands.

So start planning your journey and remember that the best things in life, begin when you start looking forward to them.

Good luck.

Yep, you're right. That is the way I am seeing it. And I'm gonna go. Its just that the mind can play funny tricks on a guy (or gal) and i have times when I just can't see it happening.

I will be seeing as a chance to reinvent myself though - thanks for your reply!

Sandy.l Jan 27th 2005 3:13 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Does my memory serve me correct in that Melbourne was voted the most liveable city in the world last year?

That sounds like a good move to me!

Good luck. :)

Sandy

desperate2go Jan 27th 2005 3:21 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!


Although i am not disagreeing with the comments of others I think it is easier to be blase about it when you are not going it alone. With the support of a partner etc it is bound to make the transition a little easier.

Having said that, as already mentioned, it will be the chance of a new life for you and it will be a clean slate.

I am also going alone (well with my 7 year old daughter) and I too am terrified at times, but i think that is to be expected. You will have all the upheaval and no real support at first so it is kinda :scared:

But the way i see it .....if i can do this alone, i can do anything. That which doesnt kill us makes us stronger and all that :D

Good luck to you and keep us posted on how it goes- we can swap lonely horror stories :eek: ;) ;)

Merlot Jan 27th 2005 3:28 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
This is what I like to read true and real stories from some very brave people!!

It gets a bit tiresome reading those up there own backsides a bit with there wonderful, perfect lives. Good for them but more often than not life in not plain sailing.

I wish you all the very best, you all deserve much happiness. :D

Merlot :)

flying dutchman Jan 27th 2005 3:38 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Thanks for all your support. Its a mental attitude thing. I know that the move will not kill me (rational thought), I also know that in every way, Melbourne is a better place to live than Southampton! Its just that fear of the unknown, of being an unknown and not knowing the in's and out's of life in a new place.

Its good to be back on the board in an active capacity by the way!

fireeater Jan 27th 2005 3:48 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!

Hi, be scared but be positive. I've felt just about evey emotion you can over the past couple of months and, at times, have been running purely on adrenaline. But I've always (well mostly) focussed on what's ahead and the enormity of it all. I'll be in Melbourne by Easter to join my wife who is already there. I can understand the strains that affect a relationship going through this process so I'm sorry you split from your partner. The same nearly happened to me. But think how sweet it will feel when you finally get to Melbourne. And there are loads of people on this site in Melbourne already to offer advice and encouragement. Before you get there, and once you're there.

Look forward to seeing you there, when we both make it

Carl:)

Kristine Jan 27th 2005 4:02 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!

I'm going on my own!!!!
I'm scared to bits and keep freaking out! But in my heart I am so, so excited.....and nervous and excited and nervous!!!
Good luck with everything - you're in the right place to get support and all the information you will need to help you with your new journey!!

Good luck to you.
Kristine.xx

Willow Jan 27th 2005 5:35 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!




hi there at least u know what to expect when you get there i have never flown in my life im scared to death of hights and i got to take my 12 year old son with me u nervouse of getting off the plane im sh**ting getting on the plane but at lease once im up there i only have one stop and then land in the Arms of my fiance who left at the beging of december we are also goig to melbourne he started out in Perth and then drove to melbourne he said me and our son will like it better there coz it a bit cooler
we are goin out in 5 weeks if all goes well not booked flight yet but for the past week i have had more butterflys in my belly then i have in my life


well good luck to u :)

vikk Jan 27th 2005 6:12 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Kristine
I'm going on my own!!!!
I'm scared to bits and keep freaking out! But in my heart I am so, so excited.....and nervous and excited and nervous!!!
Good luck with everything - you're in the right place to get support and all the information you will need to help you with your new journey!!

Good luck to you.
Kristine.xx


Hello everyone,
Me too! I'm going to Brisbane entirely on my own, I don't know a soul in the whole of the southern hemesphere... yet. Most of the time the thought scares me stupid but I know deep down that I need to do this for myself, that I would always be wondering -what if? If I didn't go and at least give it a try & I know that if it all goes horribly wrong I can come back to Uk again. So I AM going to go (IF the lovely DIMIA people ever tell me I can go.) I'm looking forward to the sunshine, the people I will meet, the new lifestyle etc BUT at 3 am when I can't sleep & I'm lying there thinking, it has to be the scariest & loneliest feeling in the world & I start to realise the sheer magnitude of it all & the mere thought becomes one of sheer torture & dread until the alarm goes off at 7am, its pitch black & pouring with murky rain & once again & I think- Can't wait to get to Oz- until that night when I can't sleep again. Is it just me or does everyone have the ups & downs?

Merlot Jan 27th 2005 6:16 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by vikk
Hello everyone,
Me too! I'm going to Brisbane entirely on my own, I don't know a soul in the whole of the southern hemesphere... yet. Most of the time the thought scares me stupid but I know deep down that I need to do this for myself, that I would always be wondering -what if? If I didn't go and at least give it a try & I know that if it all goes horribly wrong I can come back to Uk again. So I AM going to go (IF the lovely DIMIA people ever tell me I can go.) I'm looking forward to the sunshine, the people I will meet, the new lifestyle etc BUT at 3 am when I can't sleep & I'm lying there thinking, it has to be the scariest & loneliest feeling in the world & I start to realise the sheer magnitude of it all & the mere thought becomes one of sheer torture & dread until the alarm goes off at 7am, its pitch black & pouring with murky rain & once again & I think- Can't wait to get to Oz- until that night when I can't sleep again. Is it just me or does everyone have the ups & downs?

Very natural, in my own experiences as an indpendent traveller in the 90's I had better fun and met more people when I was on my own.

In Australia in the working environment people are much more open and not as guarded as the Brits can be. This way you find you get invited to BBQ's, etc more readily.

Many of my Australian friends were a bit like a kid in a strange town as Australia being so huge, their families were scattered to you would find them feeling a little alone.

Hunt out some expats from this site, some nice folk out there.

Best of luck
Merlot :)

desperate2go Jan 27th 2005 6:18 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by vikk
Hello everyone,
Me too! I'm going to Brisbane entirely on my own, I don't know a soul in the whole of the southern hemesphere... yet. Most of the time the thought scares me stupid but I know deep down that I need to do this for myself, that I would always be wondering -what if? If I didn't go and at least give it a try & I know that if it all goes horribly wrong I can come back to Uk again. So I AM going to go (IF the lovely DIMIA people ever tell me I can go.) I'm looking forward to the sunshine, the people I will meet, the new lifestyle etc BUT at 3 am when I can't sleep & I'm lying there thinking, it has to be the scariest & loneliest feeling in the world & I start to realise the sheer magnitude of it all & the mere thought becomes one of sheer torture & dread until the alarm goes off at 7am, its pitch black & pouring with murky rain & once again & I think- Can't wait to get to Oz- until that night when I can't sleep again. Is it just me or does everyone have the ups & downs?

Your certainly not alone vikk. I think there would be something seriously wrong if people in our position didnt have those feelings now and again. Its such a massive decision to make, but like you said, if it all goes horribly wrong we can always come back ( with our heads held in shame :p and everyone saying they knew it behind our backs! ) :D

Merlot Jan 27th 2005 6:21 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by desperate2go
Your certainly not alone vikk. . . . ( with our heads held in shame :p and everyone saying they knew it behind our backs! ) :D

No you don't otherwise we will have to call you Wombat42! ;)

desperate2go Jan 27th 2005 6:24 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Merlot
No you don't otherwise we will have to call you Wombat42! ;)

:eek: thats enough to keep me there FOREVER :D

vikk Jan 27th 2005 6:37 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by desperate2go
Your certainly not alone vikk. I think there would be something seriously wrong if people in our position didnt have those feelings now and again. Its such a massive decision to make, but like you said, if it all goes horribly wrong we can always come back ( with our heads held in shame :p and everyone saying they knew it behind our backs! ) :D

So it's not just me that wakes in a panic about being lonely, isolated & jobless in the middle of the night then? Glad to know I'm not alone. Not that I wish anyone else to go through it - It's just nice to know it's perfectly normal. :scared:

desperate2go Jan 27th 2005 6:43 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by vikk
So it's not just me that wakes in a panic about being lonely, isolated & jobless in the middle of the night then? Glad to know I'm not alone. Not that I wish anyone else to go through it - It's just nice to know it's perfectly normal. :scared:

Mine includes penniless and partnerless too :p

Merlot Jan 27th 2005 9:36 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by desperate2go
Mine includes penniless and partnerless too :p

Hey listen they have some great B & S Balls over there - Bachelor & Spinster Parties, mind you have to be into mullet head, Jimmy Barnes listening, beer swigging Aussies, and that is just the women ;)

jjonboy Jan 27th 2005 10:01 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Just take a deep breath and go for it mate. You'll always wonder what if? if you don't go for it...

realestate.com.au for somewhere to live
seek.com.au for a job
and rsvp.com.au for a new partner....

Game set and match online?

Phoenixuk2oz Jan 27th 2005 10:55 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Merlot
This is what I like to read true and real stories from some very brave people!!

It gets a bit tiresome reading those up there own backsides a bit with there wonderful, perfect lives. Good for them but more often than not life in not plain sailing.

I wish you all the very best, you all deserve much happiness. :D

Merlot :)

Actually Merlot people very rarely, if ever, have wonderful, perfect lives. I suspect the people on this site who you refer to as "up their own backsides" generally have as tougher lives as others, however they prefer to get on with things rather than wallow in self pity and moan at every opportunity. Does this make their life perfect and "up their own backside"? I think not :( [you maybe have been a bit harsh there Merlot :rolleyes: ]

As for Flying dutchman: I'm sure you'll be OK. It's a daunting process this migration malarky and there's no getting away from the emotional aspect of the move whether it's a family or a single person, we all go through the waves of emotional change. The good news is....migration doesn't kill you...so you ride the rough sea's and providing you've got a strong character, are prepared to face up to challenge,willing to work hard and not expect Aus to be like your home country, then you'll do well and be fine ;)

Good luck!

Shellfish Jan 27th 2005 10:58 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
It's right that you are scared. Moving to a new place is a very daunting and difficult thing to do regardless of whether you are alone or not. Melbourne is a wonderful place and I love it here but as with anything in life, it has it's up and downs. Scary as it is to be here, for me, it's scarier if I think that fear would have every stopped me from trying.

Good luck with everything!

Merlot Jan 27th 2005 11:09 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Phoenixuk2oz
Actually Merlot people very rarely, if ever, have wonderful, perfect lives. I suspect the people on this site who you refer to as "up their own backsides" generally have as tougher lives as others, however they perhaps chose to get on with things rather than wallow in self pity and moan at every opportunity. Does this make their life perfect and "up their own backside"? I think not :( [you maybe have been a bit harsh there Merlot :rolleyes: ]

Good luck!

OK a bad choice of words me thinks and naughty me for being a lady with a sweeping statement.

I am on the side of positive and determined people. We all want to read good things that are happening, there are enough bad things in this world.

I think I get tired of reading life is just fabby in Australia and if someone questions this or has something down to say, they get shot down in flames.

Sometimes the Forum lapses into what I call a bit fluffy and seems to lack balance or becomes very chatty on material and money things. These are not important to me but of course are to others.

I am learning to leave these posts be now as they don't concern me. I tend think of the others that are struggling and not going to have the great mortgage free start or excess cash to play with.

M :)

Shellfish Jan 27th 2005 11:38 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Shellfish
It's right that you are scared. Moving to a new place is a very daunting and difficult thing to do regardless of whether you are alone or not. Melbourne is a wonderful place and I love it here but as with anything in life, it has it's up and downs. Scary as it is to be here, for me, it's scarier if I think that fear would have every stopped me from trying.

Good luck with everything!

I also remembered that going it alone can have loads of advantages, not having to consult anyone on decisions would be such a bonus because along with moving countries comes huge disagreements which you can avoid :D

Phoenixuk2oz Jan 27th 2005 11:54 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Merlot
I am learning to leave these posts be now as they don't concern me. I tend think of the others that are struggling and not going to have the great mortgage free start or excess cash to play with.

M :)

Agree re wording...then again we can all make generalisations without realising ;)

I can see why you interpret some posts as fluffy [I think others call them rose tinted posts which is equally offensive if someone is enjoying life here in Aus]. However the mortgage free lifestyle once enjoyed by so many, now seems to be enjoyed by few hence the real world living in Aus, for most, consists of same sh*t.....shinier bucket ;)

The truth is Aus is good for some and not for others and same with UK. No right or wrong. Just different opinions, different perspectives and different "wants" ......but both are equally valid :)

Wanderlust Jan 27th 2005 5:09 pm

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Hiya Dutchie!

I moved out here on my own in September. Well - almost - my brother lives out here and I got to stay with him for the first little while. But - regardless - I had no friends, no job, etc., and I had huge doubts about leaving behind everyone I knew and everything familiar in the UK.

My advice to you - for the first few months - keep very busy! Don't give yourself time to sit around and feel sorry for yourself. Job hunt, home hunt, be active and go out of your way to make friends. In fact - I made friends in Brisbane before I even got here! There is an excellent website called www.RSVP.com.au. Its a singles website, but it doesnt mean you have to be desperate for love to join in. I joined and had a few penpals before I got here, and when I arrived I was taken out and shown around the town, invited to different events, etc. etc. We're still friends now and I consider them part of my social circle. You can even make sure you meet people with the same interests as you and everything! One of my scuba diving buddies was someone I met on that website. They have events nearly every month. I went along to one of their cocktail evenings - turned up all on my own - and had a lovely evening meeting all kinds of people. Aussies are very friendly people!

It's just one idea. Being scared is natural - but you'll be fine! You have to be a pretty outgoing person to even attempt the move here on your own in the first place - you'll have no trouble settling in. Just hang in there!

Good luck!!

W. :D

Kristine Jan 27th 2005 10:29 pm

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by vikk
Hello everyone,
Me too! I'm going to Brisbane entirely on my own, I don't know a soul in the whole of the southern hemesphere... yet. Most of the time the thought scares me stupid but I know deep down that I need to do this for myself, that I would always be wondering -what if? If I didn't go and at least give it a try & I know that if it all goes horribly wrong I can come back to Uk again. So I AM going to go (IF the lovely DIMIA people ever tell me I can go.) I'm looking forward to the sunshine, the people I will meet, the new lifestyle etc BUT at 3 am when I can't sleep & I'm lying there thinking, it has to be the scariest & loneliest feeling in the world & I start to realise the sheer magnitude of it all & the mere thought becomes one of sheer torture & dread until the alarm goes off at 7am, its pitch black & pouring with murky rain & once again & I think- Can't wait to get to Oz- until that night when I can't sleep again. Is it just me or does everyone have the ups & downs?

No its not you - I definately have those ups and downs. Can totally understand the 3am thing, I lie there thinking I have a really well paid job, my own house, the best of friends and I'm going to a job on far less money, nae mates, no house - have to put beloved puss into prison - sorry quarantine!!
But then I think, I'm 28 I have the rest of my life ahead of me, no ties, go have an adventure, I can always come back after a couple of years, but at least then I will have had the experience and not lie awake at 3am thinking about 'what if's'.
Good luck to you and everyone going on their own!

Professional Princess Jan 27th 2005 10:35 pm

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 
Why do problems and worries seem absolutely huge at 3am than they do at 8am?

They really do grow in size and magnify don't they?

I dont like 3am, I think it should be banned. :D

Kristine Jan 27th 2005 11:10 pm

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Professional Princess
Why do problems and worries seem absolutely huge at 3am than they do at 8am?

They really do grow in size and magnify don't they?

I dont like 3am, I think it should be banned. :D

Yeah its bad enough lying awake with all these bloomin worries and churning every thought over and over - but what makes it worse is the clock ticking by and then panicking as you're only going to get 4 hours sleep!!
I'm in a permanent state of knackerdness!!!!

vikk Jan 28th 2005 5:56 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by Kristine
Yeah its bad enough lying awake with all these bloomin worries and churning every thought over and over - but what makes it worse is the clock ticking by and then panicking as you're only going to get 4 hours sleep!!
I'm in a permanent state of knackerdness!!!!

Next time I wake up at 3 am in a state of panic I'll try to stop & think about everyone else lying in their beds worrying about Oz too so I don't feel so scared or alone. But then at 3 am I'll probably be worrying like mad about how you'll all cope out there all by yourselves. 'If I feel like this here, how on earth will I feel at 3am over there?'

Good Luck to you all especially at 3am!

Mercedes Jan 28th 2005 6:44 am

Re: Going it alone - scared to death!
 

Originally Posted by flying dutchman
Hi all,
I haven't posted on this board for a while although i have been lurking in the background watching the fate of those unfold who are applying for, or going through the horrendous wait for the visa.

My partner and I got skilled visas last July and went off on our validation trip to Perth later that month. Perth wasn't what I expected or hoped for and i felt too isolated and it also felt very American to me. No criticism of anyone living there or choosing it, but after Mebourne, I was personally disappointed. The beaches and scenery were awesome though, but I feel I want more from life.

Anyway, we got back and sadly went our separate ways and I am now planning to go it alone. There are no visa restrictions on me doing this and we had in fact always said one or both of us would go it alone if we no longer chose to be together.

So, I am now trying to work out when to make the move. I am gonna go for Melbourne as I loved it there, job prospects are better for me and I loved the European feel of the place. I have lived in quite a few coutries in my life so know the settling in bit re different culture won't be a problem. Its just REALLY scary to think when i get there is will know no one and have to get through the initial "what the hell have i done" times on my own.

I have decided to postpone my departure until October giving me more time to get used to the idea, one more European summer and then move there as the weather improves again.

I remember reading posts from people who had their departures booked, saying they were nervous, worried or downright petrified and thinking 'what a load of crap'. All I could think about was getting the visa. Now its a reality, I can honestly say it is scary. I guess that's why I am back on this board - reading positive (and not so positive) experiences and preparing myself.

Its funny, I can imagine myself living there, but the thought of getting off the plain with all my crap and thinking - 'ok now what?' is a little freaky. Anyway, I just wanted to share that thought really and would be interested in hearing from others who have gone it alone, so to speak!

I haven't read all the other replies yet. But I went to Oz on my own and not knowing a soul, landing in Melbourne first. It was a mixture of nerves and excitement, I was also lucky that when I was working people went out of their way to make me feel welcome and invited me to bbq's etc to help me meet more people. Certainly found it easier than some of the other countries I lived in. The good thing is people generally do take you on face value and since you don't have a past of maybe people knowing you when you were 5 years old, sometimes people can hold you back with memories etc. It can be a lonely ride sometimes whilst you are making new friends, but look at is as an adventure and you will also make some great friends, I know because I did and they became my adopted family.

Sometimes it's easier to go alone because you often make more effort than if you go with other people.

Wish you much happiness and adventure.


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