​Moving abroad can feel like stepping into an entirely new world. It’s a thrilling adventure and a chance to experience life in a way most people only dream about. But while living abroad is full of exciting opportunities, it also comes with its share of challenges—sometimes, the spark dims, and it’s easy to feel demotivated.As a student abroad, I know firsthand what an advanture it is and the challenges that can come along.

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The good news? 💡 Staying motivated is totally possible, even if you’re in a bit of a slump. Here are some effective strategies I’ve found that can help reignite your motivation and make each day feel purposeful:

1. Establish a routine 🌅:

• Having a daily routine can bring a sense of normalcy and structure to an otherwise unfamiliar environment

2. Connect with others 🤝:

• Meeting people and forming connection can make a huge difference. It can help reduce feelings of isolation.

• I got lucky in meeting another intern who has similar interests, humor and is as curious about the city as I am.

3. Explore your surroundings 🌍:

• Getting out and discovering your new environment is one of the most fulfilling parts of living abroad

4. Stay connected with friends and family 📞:

• Staying in touch with family and friends provides comfort and regular check-ins can help bridge the distance.

5. Practice self-care 🧘‍♀️:

• Maintaining your mental and physical health is essential. Make sure to include these practices in your routine.

6. Set personal/professional goals 🎯:

• Setting achievable goals can give you something to work towards, keeps you motivated and a sense of accomplishments at the end. (Especially when working remote)

As a student abroad, I had a vision of what this experience would be like—exciting and packed with adventure. But sometimes life throws in a few unexpected twists. This had led me to work remotely for a while, which was an adjustment. Working remotely can be especially challenging because you miss out on the energy and motivation that comes from being surrounded by colleagues and friends.

But even from a distance, these strategies have helped me stay connected and motivated. I kept in touch with a few close friends and colleagues, adjusted my routines, interracted more with my roommates and found ways to keep exploring and learning in my own way.