Mila Pavlovic
photo by Erik Rozman

From Dreaming Abroad to Feeling at Home

Moving abroad is a profound emotional and psychological journey.
The stages of culture shock are natural phases expats go through while settling into life abroad. By understanding these stages, you can better navigate change, manage your expectations, and create a smoother, more empowered transition.

1. Dreaming & Preparing

You’re excited and full of ideas about your future life abroad.
You research, plan, and imagine all the possibilities ahead.
At this stage, expectations are high, and uncertainties may arise.

Coaching helps clarify your goals, manage expectations, and create a relocation plan you feel confident about.

2. Honeymoon

Everything feels fresh and exciting in your new environment.
You’re exploring, meeting new people, and enjoying cultural differences.
It’s a time of wonder but often without much structure yet.

Coaching helps you anchor positive routines and build early habits to sustain long-term well-being.

3. Culture Shock

Frustration and homesickness surface as the challenges pile up.
You feel disconnected, overwhelmed, and may question your decision.
This is the emotional low point of the transition.

Coaching provides emotional support, practical tools, and strategies to regain stability and confidence.

4. Adjustment

You begin building routines and understanding how things work locally.
Your confidence grows as you adapt socially and professionally.
The new culture starts to feel more familiar and manageable.

Coaching strengthens your resilience, helps deepen connections, and refines your adjustment strategies.

5. Reverse Culture Shock

Returning home feels unexpectedly challenging.
You may feel disconnected from your old environment and misunderstood.
This can trigger confusion or even grief over past changes.

Coaching helps you process these emotions and navigate re-entry or new transitions smoothly.

6. Readjustment

You start to integrate your experiences and lessons from abroad.
New perspectives influence how you approach life back home or elsewhere.
You’re rebuilding your sense of belonging and redefining goals.

Coaching supports you in creating a renewed vision and helps you design your next chapter with clarity.

Coaching Packages

The Relocation Journey

A long-term coaching program designed to support you throughout the full cycle of your expat experience.

  • Biweekly coaching calls for 6 months
  • Support through culture shock, adjustment, and settling into life abroad

Ideal for expats seeking consistent, ongoing guidance during major transitions.

The Foundation Package

A focused coaching program to help you build a solid base for your relocation journey.

  • 6 coaching sessions to create clarity, routines, and resilience
  • Tailored strategies to help you feel grounded and confident

Ideal for expats looking for a shorter-term, action-oriented framework.

Individual Coaching

Flexible, stand-alone coaching sessions that adapt to your evolving needs.

  • Book sessions as needed for targeted support.
  • Your Journey, Your Way:
    Whether you’re facing unexpected challenges or have specific goals in mind, I meet you exactly where you are.

Ideal for expats who prefer a personalized, on-demand approach.

Why Work With Me?

Experienced Expat

I’ve navigated multiple international moves at different stages of life — from solo adventures to career shifts.

These experiences have shaped a deep understanding of the emotional, cultural, and logistical challenges that come with expat life.

With professional coaching skills and lived experience, I bring empathy, clarity, and practical tools to support others in transition.

Accredited Coaching Certification

I hold a diploma in Transformational Coaching from Animas Centre for Coaching, an ICF-accredited training provider. This certification means I’ve been rigorously trained in deep listening, powerful questioning, and supporting meaningful change — all aligned with ICF standards.

Member of International Coaching Federation

As a member of ICF, I commit to globally recognized ethical guidelines and a high standard of professional practice. This ensures that my coaching is rooted in integrity, confidentiality, and continuous growth.

Member of the International Association of Facilitators

As a member of IaF, I bring a strong foundation in designing and leading group processes. My facilitation practice is grounded in global best practices, focused on enabling collaboration, insight, and real impact.

Let’s Connect Today

Schedule a free introduction call