The Decision

I decided to immigrate to Canada even though I didn’t have a clear job plan or strong English.

I wanted stability for my family and a future that felt predictable.

People involved

Spouse

Blind Spot

I didn’t know how hard “starting from zero” feels when your identity is tied to your old career.

I underestimated how long it would take to find decent work and how much energy paperwork would consume.

Severity: High

Action

I focused on getting any job quickly, enrolled in a short program to upgrade my skills, and forced myself to practice English daily.

Loneliness, weak professional network, and constant comparison with people who grew up here.

Support you had

Family, Friends

Cost

• Mental/Emotional: High
• Financial: High
• Time: Months
• Health: High

The stress wasn’t one big event. It was daily pressure: bills, uncertainty, and feeling behind.

Outcome

After about a year, I found stable work and my confidence slowly came back, but it wasn’t the “new life” I imagined. It was a rebuild.

Worth it? yes

Don’t tie your self-worth to your first job. Build your network early. Ask for help sooner.

Advice

If you’re moving to a new country, plan your first 90 days like a survival mission: housing, income, and routine.

I would start networking before arriving and invest in English speaking earlier instead of waiting.

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