A recent poll revealed that 34% of Americans—an estimated 117 million people—would move abroad if given the opportunity. Following the U.S. election, searches for “how to leave the U.S.” skyrocketed by 1500%. Yet, despite this overwhelming interest, only about 100,000 Americans actually move abroad each year.
Why? The answer lies not in finances, logistics, or timing but in mindset. In this post, we’ll explore the seven essential mindsets of successful expats and how you can join the 0.1% who turn the dream of moving abroad into reality.
The Seven Mindsets to Move Abroad Successfully
1. Take Responsibility for Your Life
To move abroad successfully, you must take full responsibility for your life. It’s easy to blame external factors—politics, finances, or circumstances—for why you can’t relocate. However, the first step to making your dream a reality is to recognize that your choices, not outside forces, shape your life.
By embracing this mindset, you’ll free yourself from excuses and begin taking action to create the future you want.
2. Money Is Abundant, No Matter Where You Are
One of the biggest myths that holds people back from moving abroad is the belief that they need to save a fortune before they can leave. However, successful expats understand that money is abundant and opportunities exist everywhere.
Recessions and crises often pave the way for entrepreneurial success. Learning how to identify opportunities and generate income remotely can help you move abroad without waiting for “the perfect financial situation.”
3. Problems Are Opportunities in Disguise
Rather than avoiding challenges, successful expats see problems as opportunities to create solutions and build a better life. For example, finding ways to navigate immigration processes, generate remote income, or adapt to a new culture might seem like obstacles. But overcoming them allows you to grow and thrive.
When you shift your mindset to view problems as opportunities, you’ll find creative ways to solve them and achieve your goals.
4. Keep Your Word to Yourself
The ability to keep your word—especially to yourself—is critical when planning to move abroad. If you consistently break small promises, such as skipping a gym session or procrastinating on tasks, you’re training your brain to distrust your decisions.
Successful expats start by honoring small commitments, which builds the confidence and discipline needed to tackle bigger challenges, like relocating to a new country.
5. Your Resourcefulness Matters More Than Resources
Many aspiring expats worry they lack the resources—money, connections, or skills—to move abroad. But the truth is, resourcefulness matters far more than what you currently have.
With determination, you can learn the skills, find the people, and create the opportunities needed to make your dream a reality. The internet, for example, levels the playing field, giving you access to global markets and resources no matter where you start.
6. Opportunities Are Everywhere, Even in Emerging Markets
Successful expats know that moving abroad doesn’t mean settling for less. In fact, many emerging markets, such as Mexico and Colombia, offer incredible opportunities in areas like entrepreneurship, real estate, and technology.
These markets are often less saturated, giving expats the chance to thrive in industries that might feel overcrowded in their home country.
7. Your Goals Don’t Need to Take as Long as You Think
One of the most common misconceptions about moving abroad is that it requires years of planning. In reality, you can relocate in months—or even weeks—if you set a clear goal and take decisive action.
The key is to stop overcomplicating the process. For example, if you need to generate $10,000 a month to fund your move, start by identifying a product or service you can sell for that amount. Focused action can yield results far faster than you might expect.
Why Moving Abroad Is Easier Than You Think
Moving abroad may seem daunting, but with the right mindset and actionable steps, it’s far more achievable than most people realize. The biggest obstacle isn’t money, logistics, or politics—it’s the mental barriers we create for ourselves.
If you’re ready to take the leap, start by:
- Learning remote income strategies: Focus on creating location-independent income streams.
- Picking a destination: Research countries that align with your lifestyle and goals.
- Taking action: Book your ticket, start downsizing, and make the move.
Start Your Move Abroad Journey Today
Moving abroad is a life-changing decision that doesn’t have to remain a distant dream. By adopting these seven mindsets, you can join the 0.1% of Americans who take control of their future and create the life they truly want.
Ready to get started? Visit Entrepreneur Expat to download our free guide on building a location-independent business and taking the first steps toward your move abroad.
Let us know in the comments: What’s holding you back from moving abroad? What steps will you take today to turn your dream into a reality?