Nervous Adventurer

If you’re anything like me, you’d have applied for the visa BEFORE actually making any concrete plans about leaving. That isn’t a bad idea actually, because you want to make sure that you are actually eligible for the scheme before you go all out and start planning everything.

When I got my visa approved, I was working full time at a teaching job. I was (and still am) in a long-term, committed relationship. My family and friends were all in Singapore. Basically, I had a lovely life set up. And that’s why I received a barrage of questions when I announced my plans to go to NZ.

“You have a well-paying job, why do you wanna mess with that?”

“Why New Zealand? It’s so boring!” (This statement was almost always made by people who’ve never set foot into the country. Armchair critics, away with them! Pffft.)

“You’re going to have a 6 month gap in your resume when you come back home.”

“You’re not going to last more than a month in NZ.” (This was repeated various times by several different people)

“Aren’t you going to burn a big hole in your savings?”

“Oh please, your wages from work will probably just be enough to pay for food.”

I could go on, but we have more important things to discuss.

I’m hoping that you won’t face too much resistance when you inform your loved ones of your travel plans. But honestly, you probably will to some extent, especially if you come from a culture where travel is seen either as really dangerous, or as an incredible luxury.

I guess what I’m saying is that this choice is ultimately a very personal decision. I’m sure there are people who simply don’t do things because they’re advised by their families not to. I’m one such person. I do generally have an obedient nature, and if my parents had disagreed (with good reason) with my decision, I probably would have just given up on the idea of going to NZ altogether. But there are people out there—wonderful, strong people—who really fight for what they want. If your naysayers are simply dragging you down and killing your buzz, you should stand your ground!

Like I said, it is a very personal decision. Every family has different dynamics, and you’ll know best what you should do!

🙂

T