Moving to London at 18 was one of the most exciting and life-changing decisions I’ve ever made. In this article, I’ll share how and why I did it, what pushed me to take the leap, and what you should consider if you’re thinking about doing the same.
My story:
After graduating from high school, I felt completely lost. Like most people my age, I thought I had to go to university, but nothing felt right for me. I couldn’t find a subject I was passionate about, and the idea of studying just for the sake of it didn’t feel fulfilling.
I started asking myself a lot of questions: Should I go to university just like everyone else? Or should I follow a dream I had always had, moving abroad and learning English? At that time, I was dealing with a lot of doubt and the fear of doing something different. Most of my friends chose to stay and study, but I knew I needed something else.
I had already heard about being an au pair, but I had never really considered it seriously. Then one day, I looked into it a bit more and realized it could actually be the perfect solution. You live with a host family, take care of their kids, and in exchange, they provide you with accommodation, meals, and some pocket money. It seemed like the perfect opportunity: affordable, immersive, and exciting.
As soon as I found a host family in London and spoke with them on two video calls (which went really well!), I knew this was it. I moved to London at the beginning of November, and I’ve never looked back.
1 – Why do you want to move abroad?
Is it really for you, or is it to impress others? Maybe your parents said it would be good for your future, but deep down, is that what you want? Moving abroad isn’t necessarily hard, but it’s definitely a big experience. If your heart’s not in it, it can feel overwhelming. But if your reasons include learning a new language, exploring a different culture, becoming more independent, or simply living a new adventure, go for it! You won’t regret it, I promise 😉.
2 – What do you want to do there?
Do you want to study? Travel? Work as an au pair? Find a local job? Whatever it is, make a plan. Having a clear goal will reduce your anxiety and help you stay focused once you arrive. If you’re curious about the au pair experience, feel free to ask me anything, I’m happy to help! 😃
3 – Don’t let other people’s fears become your own
A lot of people, even those close to you, might try to discourage you or share all the negative things that could happen. But don’t let their doubts or fears take over your mind. Remember, their worries are not your reality unless you make them so. Stay confident in your choice and trust your own journey.
4 – What if… it all goes well?
Stop focusing on everything that could go wrong, what if everything goes right?
You can always book a flight back if things don’t feel okay. It’s better to try and come back than to never try at all and regret it later. Honestly, what do you really have to lose?
Even when things don’t go perfectly, it’s still an experience, a lesson that makes you stronger. I can tell you, there were many times I could have given up and flown back to France. But I know I would’ve regretted not facing the hard moments.
And the truth is: most of the time, we create stories in our head. We overthink, we imagine the worst, but in the end, nothing bad actually happens. It is the best experience! Looking back, I’m so glad I made the decision to move, it’s one of the best choices I’ve ever made.
