10 Tips for Balancing Mom Life while Living Abroad

1. Embrace the Local Culture

When we first moved abroad, I was overwhelmed by how different everything felt. From the bustling markets filled with vibrant spices to the new social norms, it was a lot to take in. But as I began to engage with the culture—learning about local traditions, trying new foods, and attending community events—I found myself feeling more connected and at home. My kids have loved being a part of these experiences too, whether it’s joining in a traditional dance or enjoying the delicious new foods.

Tip: Start small. Visit local markets, participate in festivals, or simply chat with neighbors. These moments will enrich your experience and create beautiful memories for your family. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—locals often appreciate your interest in their culture.

2. Prioritize Language Learning

Learning the local language has been one of the hardest yet most rewarding parts of living abroad. It’s not easy to carve out time for language lessons between diaper changes, homeschooling, and grocery shopping, but even small efforts make a big difference. I’ll admit, I’ve made more than a few embarrassing mistakes trying to pronounce words correctly, but those moments have often led to laughter and connection. It is also difficult to truly feel at home in another country when you can’t speak the language and make friends with the people there. That is why it is one of the top priorities for our family living abroad.

Tip: Use apps, take online lessons, or practice with local friends. My kids love when I include them in my practice—we turn it into a fun family activity! Even just learning a few key phrases in the beginning can open doors for friendships and make daily interactions smoother.

3. Accept That You Can’t Do It All

Balancing mom life in a new country means some things will inevitably fall through the cracks. And that’s okay. I’ve learned to give myself grace when the laundry piles up or dinner isn’t perfect. There are days when the house is a mess, and I’m scrambling to find clean clothes for the kids, but I’ve learned to focus on the bigger picture. I have learned that I just have to recognize my limitations and find joy in the things I can accomplish.

Tip: Focus on what matters most—your family’s well-being. Everything else can wait. Delegate tasks when possible, and remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal.

4. Simplify Meals

Cooking in a new country can be tricky, especially when you’re navigating dietary restrictions. My husband has celiac disease, so finding gluten-free options has been a challenge, especially because this part of the world includes bread in so many dishes. Early on, I spent hours hunting for specific ingredients, only to come home frustrated and exhausted. Over time, I’ve learned to adapt and simplify our meals, relying on naturally gluten-free staples like fresh produce, meats, and rice. Also, the carnivore diet has helped simplify our meals even more, as all we really need to buy for meals is meat, eggs, cheese, and milk.

Tip: Stick to simple meals. Focus on finding things you are familiar cooking with, and slowly add in local ingredients when you are feeling adventurous. And when you find a store that carries your essentials, stock up! Don’t hesitate to ask locals or expat groups for tips on where to find specialty items.

5. Build a Support Network

When we first moved, I felt pretty isolated without my usual support system. But over time, I’ve built a community of other expat and local friends who’ve become like family. Having people to lean on, share experiences with, and even swap babysitting duties has been a game-changer.

Tip: Join expat groups, attend playdates, or connect with other moms at the park. Having people who understand your challenges makes a world of difference.

6. Create a Routine

Kids thrive on routine, and so do moms. Establishing a daily rhythm has helped us feel more settled in our new environment. From morning walks to bedtime stories, these small rituals create a sense of normalcy amidst all the change.

Tip: Include time for family activities, self-care, and exploration. A predictable schedule will make life feel more manageable. And don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity—some of our favorite memories have come from unexpected adventures.

7. Involve Your Kids in the Adventure

Living abroad is an incredible gift for children. My kids love learning about the culture here, from tasting local dishes to learning local traditions. These experiences are shaping them into open-minded, adaptable individuals. I’ve noticed how their curiosity and resilience have grown so much since we moved here.

Tip: Let your kids take the lead sometimes. Ask them what they want to explore or learn about the culture. It’s amazing to see the world through their eyes. Encourage them to make friends with local kids—these relationships can be incredibly enriching.

8. Accept the Hard Days

There have been days when I’ve felt homesick, overwhelmed, or just plain exhausted. Living abroad amplifies the usual mom struggles, and that’s okay. Some days, I miss the comfort of familiar routines and easy access to certain conveniences. But I remind myself of the beauty of the life we’ve created for ourselves here, and how it now truly feels like home.

Tip: Allow yourself to feel those emotions, but don’t dwell on them. Call a friend, journal, or treat yourself to something comforting. Tomorrow is a new day. Remember, you’re doing something brave and amazing by living abroad.

9. Celebrate the Small Wins

When I successfully ordered a coffee in the local language for the first time, I felt amazing. And the first time I didn’t feel overwhelmed grocery shopping, I realized how far I had come. Celebrate those victories, no matter how small they seem. Every step forward is worth acknowledging.

Tip: Keep a journal of your accomplishments. Looking back on how far you’ve come will give you the motivation to keep going. Share these wins with your family to inspire them as well.

10. Cherish Raising Multicultural Kids

One of the most beautiful parts of living abroad is watching my kids grow up with a deep appreciation for multiple cultures. They’re learning to be empathetic, curious, and adaptable—qualities that will serve them for a lifetime. Seeing work to learn different languages and enjoy different traditions fills me with pride.

Tip: Encourage your kids to embrace both their home culture and the local culture. Share stories, traditions, and foods from both worlds to give them a rich, balanced upbringing. Celebrate their unique identity and remind them of how special it is to be part of multiple cultures.