Reflections on Living Abroad: A Journey from India to the UK
Living abroad can be an exhilarating and challenging experience, especially for those who have grown up in a familiar environment. For many Indians who have settled in foreign countries, there are mixed feelings about leaving their homeland. This article explores the experiences and reflections of someone who moved to the UK after spending years in India, focusing on three key areas: age-related regrets, weather-related misses, and career-related disappointments.
Age-Related Regrets
One of the most profound regrets for many who move abroad late in their 20s or early 30s is the age-related aspect. Our youth is a fleeting time when dreams seem limitless and opportunities abound. In our 20s, we are like young artists, eager to explore and make a mark on the world. Our ambitions are unbounded, and we have a naivety that allows us to take on challenges with enthusiasm and optimism. The passage of time can make us long for those days of ease and flexibility, replaced by a more rigid and responsible adulthood.
If only I had taken the chance in my early 20s, the journey might have been smoother. Picture a younger, more pliable version of oneself, navigating the turbulent waters of young adulthood. It is a poignant thought to imagine the opportunities that might have been lost due to that missed window of opportunity. The regret is not in the decision to move, but in the decision to delay it for a decade or more, losing the flexibility and energy of youth.
Weather-Related Misses
The weather in both India and the UK has its unique charms and challenges. India, particularly Bangalore, where many spend their formative years, experiences weather that can feel chaotic. The city is currently navigating a water crisis, with residents resorting to multiple showers per week and depleting resources. However, the ever-bright and sunny skies of Bangalore hold a special charm, providing a stark contrast to the perpetual gloom of the UK.
While the English weather offers a comforting routine, the constant drizzle also reminds me of the vibrant life in Bangalore. The city's transformation into a liveable dystopia, with a lack of government support for high-rise apartments and a rising number of vehicles, highlights the challenges of urbanization. These missed experiences, such as enjoying the natural beauty and vibrancy of Bangalore, are a source of regret, even as they offer a sense of stability in a foreign land.
Career-Related Disappointments
The Indian IT landscape, with its dynamic and challenging work environment, is a world away from the structured and regulated professional scene in the UK. While India held a certain charm with its endless chaos and vibrant energy, the UK offers a different kind of stability. Yet, the transition comes with its own set of challenges, such as navigating British bureaucracy and the whims of a line manager.
The decision to leave behind the dynamic Indian IT scene for the rainy streets of Britain was a bold move, and it brings its own set of challenges. Reflecting on the past, the contrast between the gender, religious, and regional biases present in Indian companies and the structured but impersonal nature of British HR policies is jarring. Yet, it is these challenges that push one to adapt and grow.
In conclusion, the journey from India to the UK is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with regrets and realizations. While the sunny days of Bangalore may be missed, the rainy days in the UK offer a different kind of stability and a fresh perspective. To those eager to explore the world beyond their comfort zones, this journey is a reminder to embrace the challenges and the opportunities that come with changing landscapes.