How can I deal with being the trailing spouse?

Hi Kathy,

What you are experiencing is quite common among so-called “trailing spouses.” You’ve picked up and moved your life in order to accommodate your spouse, and now the reality is setting in. But don’t worry: You have plenty of options for getting yourself active and involved. All you need is a little motivation.

Learning a language, volunteering, starting a freelance or side business, studying, dedicating yourself to cross-cultural learning, or picking up new and unexpected hobbies are all ways of keeping yourself busy and making sure that you are progressing while you are stationed abroad.

Finding a job is also one of the most rewarding ways of spending your time abroad. Even if you were not planning on working while away, consider the personal and professional benefits of picking up part-time or full-time work in your host country.

Did you know that MyWorldAbroad has an extensive section about this very issue? Check out the articles below (for registered users):

• The Traveling Spouse: Why Work?
• Your Individual Circumstances
• Alternatives to Working

Good luck!

Jean-Marc