My Journey

Whenever I share with others my experiences as an expatriate traversing multiple nations, the inevitable question arises: "Do you feel a sense of rootlessness?" Not at all.

Over the years, I've reflected deeply on this matter, and in doing so, I’ve obtained a more profound and expansive understanding.

My Story

When I tell people that I’ve spent much of my life moving from country to country as an expat, the follow-up question is almost always: “Do you feel rootless?” No, I don’t.

I’ve thought about this a lot over the years, and with time, I’ve gained a deeper and broader perspective on it.

“Does constant movement make us rootless or deeply grounded?”This question explores the experience of living in continuous change—whether it’s physical relocation, adapting to new environments, or navigating the ever-shifting demands of modern life and work. At first glance, all that movement might seem to strip away our sense of stability or belonging. But I believe it can also create a deeper kind of grounding—not through traditional roots, but through a richer understanding of the world and ourselves. It’s about finding a sense of stability within, no matter where life takes you.

To me, resilience isn’t just about rolling with the punches—it’s about understanding and embracing change. Resilience is often seen as simply enduring challenges, but it goes far beyond that. It’s not just about surviving change; it’s about thriving in the midst of it. To understand change is to recognize it as a natural part of life, to see its patterns, and to uncover the opportunities it brings. Embracing change takes courage and an open mind—a willingness to grow and adapt, not in spite of change, but because of it.

 

“Does perpetual transition make us devoid of roots or firmly anchored?”This inquiry delves into the essence of living amidst change—whether involving relocation, adapting to fresh surroundings, or managing the dynamic challenges of contemporary existence. Initially, this constant motion can appear to erode our sense of stability. Yet, I posit that it may offer a unique form of anchorage—not through conventional roots, but through a richer comprehension of the world and ourselves. It’s about discovering internal steadiness, regardless of where life directs us.

For me, resilience transcends mere endurance; it is rooted in grasping and welcoming change. Often viewed as simply withstanding challenges, resilience encompasses so much more. It’s about thriving amidst upheaval. To acknowledge change is to see it as an inherent facet of life, to perceive its cycles, and to uncover the avenues it opens. Embracing adjustments necessitates bravery and a receptive spirit—a readiness to evolve, not merely in spite of change, but owing to it.

This philosophy applies to both personal living and leadership. Personally, it implies remaining receptive to novel experiences and learning from every twist and turn. As a leader, it encompasses guiding and reassuring others through turmoil, aiding them in recognizing the promise of change, and emboldening them to flourish. By being anchored in principles such as empathy, curiosity, and direction, we forge stability amidst transformation.

This mindset transmutes movement—whether it’s physical, emotional, or professional—into a font of strength and development. It nurtures adaptability, innovation, and the capacity to bond beyond limits. It lays the groundwork for not only adeptly navigating change but also welcoming it as a gateway to novel opportunities.

Recently, a peer remarked, “For you, progressing and flourishing amid change feels like second nature.”
And they were spot-on—it has indeed become intrinsic to my being.

Roots and Wings. That encapsulates the essence.