Alone, Abroad: Things Italy Taught Me

I never imagined that living abroad would shape me the way it did. When I first arrived in Italy, I thought I was just moving for work—new projects, new challenges, maybe some good pasta along the way. But what I really found was myself.

I realized that I needed inner change, and to finally focus on me. It was tough—being foreign, being a little overweight, and at times even being made fun of.

Being alone in a foreign country strips you down. Suddenly, the comfort of family, old friends, and familiar places is gone. You’re forced to rely on your own strength, your own voice, and your own ability to figure things out—even when you don’t know the language well enough to argue with your landlord or explain to the barista that you didn’t actually want your coffee that strong.

In my case, I didn’t have to argue with any landlord—fortunately, I lived in the company’s apartment and had one or two great roommates who helped me and were always kind to me.

At first, it was overwhelming. The cultural differences, the bureaucracy (if you know Italy, you know), and the constant push outside my comfort zone had me questioning everything. I wanted to quit so many times—new job, new country, new everything. My mom was the one who pushed me to experience it all, and I’m grateful to her because it molded me into someone stronger.

Italy taught me patience. It taught me how to adapt—and also how not to trust everyone right away. I ran into envy and jealousy that sometimes dismotivated me, but I had to stand tall and keep going.

Living abroad is never easy. But it gave me resilience, adaptability, and confidence that I now pour into my work and my personal journey. Whether it’s design, branding, or wellness, those lessons continue to shape the way I create and the way I live.

Because sometimes, the best designs—and the best versions of ourselves—are created when life pushes us out of our comfort zone.