Almost two years ago, when I decided to move abroad, I thought I had everything handled. Little did I know, the experience would teach me far more than I had anticipated.
To provide some context, I became an Au Pair. This cultural exchange program involved living with a host family while caring for their children. For me, it was a chance to immerse myself in a foreign country, and it transformed me into a completely different person.
One of the most significant lessons I learned was how to work on my social skills. While people tend to be friendly in most places, making genuine connections and friendships requires stepping out of your comfort zone. I discovered the importance of effective communication and adapting my speech to different individuals and cultural contexts. Whether it was asking for directions, learning about someone or something new, or embracing novel experiences, I became adept at connecting with others.
Another valuable skill I acquired was the ability to work full-time. Previously, my professional experiences consisted of part-time internships and freelance work. As an intern, I had ample free time during the day, and as a freelancer, I often procrastinated until the last minute. However, my time as an Au Pair taught me how to navigate daily situations, deal with demanding bosses and handle challenging coworkers, regardless of the work environment.
Being an Au Pair, demanded meeting the parents' sometimes eccentric demands, whether or not I personally agreed with them. I had to meet schedules, brainstorm creative ideas, multitask, and adapt to various routines. This experience taught me the importance of adapting, having leadership skills, finding the delicate balance between providing structure and fun, fostering creativity, and establishing necessary boundaries.
Furthermore, I developed exceptional time management abilities. Being punctual became non-negotiable, especially when I had to ensure that four young children were fed, dressed, and ready to go. I had no choice but to learn how to efficiently manage my time in order to meet these demanding and unpredictable responsibilities.
No less significant, I was enlightened about the workings of capitalism. It was incredible being able to afford the things I desired and, even more so, to earn enough to do so. Though this might sound like boasting, what I mean is I truly learned the incredible feeling of being rewarded for hard work.
I gained a newfound appreciation for my own value and contributions in the workplace, and I came to expect recognition for them. This newfound confidence began to manifest itself in interviews, job prospects, and my overall self-image. I discovered how to showcase my worth, invest in my personal and professional growth, and value myself in a way that positively impacted my future.
As a bonus, I also have a better understanding of the value of people in my life. I learned to cherish my family, differentiate between friends and casual acquaintances, and identify those who reciprocate appreciation and support. This understanding has made my life considerably more fulfilling and manageable.
In conclusion, my decision to embark on the Au Pair Journey taught me invaluable lessons. It sharpened my social skills, honed my ability to work full-time, instilled leadership qualities, enhanced my time management skills, and educated me on the value of myself and life itself.
