Unsettled since Aus holiday

[SophW89]

Hi all

Not sure if this is the right place for my message, but it heavily revolves around Aus so thought it fit.

I'll try and cut a long story short. I went to Aus for 2 weeks 2 years ago and, ever since coming back, I just can't settle.

For some context, we have a lovely life in the UK. My mum lives round the corner and we are so, so close. I've never thought about leaving where I live because I've always been so content here, knowing that I can travel but always come home.

Now, I just feel like I've become obsessed with the idea of moving to Aus (I have a job on the skilled occ. list). At 35, I regret not going to live somewhere abroad like my husband did in my 20s.

Running alongside this is that we are trying to decide if we want children (or a child, as likely just to be one!)

I'm conflicted between thinking f*ck it, let's do it, versus needing to make the baby decision. And, honestly, could I really see myself on the other side of the world without family support and a very small baby? I don't know whether I'm just using Aus as a distraction to avoid making a decision that feels so overwhelming.

I don't really know what I'm looking for here :( just feel in such a state of flux and pulled between two sides of my brain.

Would be really keen to hear views from those who have made the move, haven't, or have and then moved back!

Sorry for the outpouring here. I totally appreciate a holiday is nothing like living somewhere, but at the moment I'm getting sucked in to all the social media expat accounts - I should be old enough to know better!

I moved from the UK to Australia and never looked back. I have also met ex pats who missed the UK and returned. Could you perhaps come out for one or two years, which would give you the experience/adventure, then you can make a more informed decision to stay or return to the UK. Everyone’s experience is different. Whatever you decide, I wish you all the very best and lots of happiness and contentment.

Thank you 😊 and for your kind words x

I moved just over 10years ago, to FNQ. Apart from family and friends, do not miss it at all! Where I am, after decades of commuting and working in London, I can actually stop and breathe if that makes sense? Australia is a lot bigger than Perth, there are cooler regions in Victoria and NSW if that suits, but for me I feel the work life balance is so much better. Good luck with whatever you decide OP!