When to move abroad article featured image. eric james of foreign option standing in Bangkok chinatown, text "When Should i move abroad?"

When Is The Right Time To Move Abroad?

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I’ve yet to meet a man who regrets making the leap to live in another country. Sure, many have encountered challenges and made mistakes—like marrying the wrong partner or forgetting to file taxes—but even those missteps haven’t deterred them from enjoying their lives abroad.

In today’s world, with political chaos and economic uncertainty prevalent in the U.S. and across the Western world, the timing has never been more favorable for a fresh start. With low birth rates and rising divorce rates, there are more single people than ever looking for new opportunities.

Look, I love my home country of the United States. A lot. But why not bypass the turmoil and explore the world instead? Embrace the mindset of pursuing freedom, adventure, and new experiences rather than fleeing from a mundane lifestyle.

Also see: Why Move Abroad?

Is Now Is The Best Time?

Now, more than ever, is the ideal time to consider moving abroad. In the Western world there is:

  • Major economic uncertainty
  • Absurd modern dating dynamics
  • Outrageous political tension
Purchasing Power of a dollar.
Data gathered from Consumer Price Index (CPI)

After dabbling in international travel starting in 2019, I launched on a life abroad full-time in 2022. Best decision I ever made. But here is the reality: There will NEVER be a perfect time to go.

Much of this decision is a mental challenge. It was for me. Many men think tomorrow or next year will be a better day to take action, but unfortunately, for most men – tomorrow never comes.

As Naval Ravikant wisely said, “Inspiration is perishable.” If you feel inspired to make a change, don’t wait—act on that inspiration now! That inspiration is a gift and if you don’t use it, then it will expire.

The Window Will Never Close

Factually, there has never been a more opportune moment to move abroad. However, I’m not trying to scare you like there won’t be opportunities down the road.

Short of a major war, global financial catastrophe, or the unexpected arrival of aliens, the chance to relocate is unlikely to vanish. While the U.S. dollar has fluctuated in strength, it remains a viable currency, and I’ve witnessed its ups and downs during my four years abroad.

Eric James of Foreign Option in Da Nang, Vietnam
Hanging out at the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Adopt an abundance mentality: the world is full of opportunities. Yes, some locations can become “hot spots” like Da Nang, Vietnam, which I visited just before it became widely popular. However, new hidden gems are continually emerging. Don’t let fear hold you back; there’s a vast world waiting to be discovered!

Also see: Where Should I Move Abroad?

Are Your Finances In Order?

Obviously, before making the move, ensure your finances are in order. The last thing you want is to find yourself broke in a foreign country. Generally, there are two paths men use to support themselves abroad:

  1. Retirement Income: This can include pensions, 401(k)s, Social Security, or disability benefits.
  2. Active Income: Options here include working remotely as a digital nomad or securing a local job. Seasonal expats often find ways to balance their income streams effectively. (Insert link later)

In past decades, the expat lifestyle was predominantly available to older men. Why? Because they were retired and could live on their pensions, social security, or 401k’s. With the emergence of technologies, the lifestyle has been enabled to men of all ages.

The Mental Hurdle

You might be surprised to hear me say that the biggest thing that keeps people from moving abroad isn’t their financial situation. It’s FEAR.

Eric from Foreign Option hanging out in Mombasa Kenya at the elephant tusks monument.
Hanging out in Mombasa, Kenya.

This fear come in many different shapes and forms. Fear of the unknown. Fear of where to start. Fear of getting rid of their things. Fear of leaving their daily habits and routines. I’m here to help.

Here are several more barriers can prevent men from taking the plunge:

  • Comfort: The familiarity of home can be a powerful deterrent.
  • Lack of a Roadmap: Many simply don’t know where to start—that’s where I come in.
  • Justified Excuses: Concerns about being close to family, dislike of airports, or worries about logistics are valid.
  • Income Concerns: The uncertainty of income can be daunting.
  • Safety and Risk: Exaggerated fears that world is a very dangerous place.

While these are legitimate concerns, the real reason many men hesitate is that they struggle to take the first step. It’s the small, consistent actions that lead to significant change.

Welcome to Foreign Option.