Why Creativity Matters When You’re Relocating Abroad
Why Creativity Matters When You’re Relocating Abroad
I’m not a writer nor do I want to become one. Also, I should probably be writing about something useful for the people of the expat world or something. And yet, I’m sitting here at Calico coffeeshop near downtown Lille pretending to be a creative writer. What a waste of time this is.
What I Learned Writing from a Café in Lille
I can be creative though. Yesterday I took down a Rancor with a Dathomir-bound astromech droid called R1-C8 using a single basketball. Oh yeah, sorry — weird Star Wars references will be common here I guess. Thanks to my 4-year-old son who reignited my passion.
Stop Consuming, Start Creating
Okay, so creativity. Where can I use it? Definitely not at working on my 5-year business plan. I should be listening to podcasts, YouTube videos, or paying someone who helps me find new clients. There are so many creators out there who know how to make my business successful.
Look, I’ve listened to Alex Hormozi probably the same amount of times as you or the person next to you. I think he’s great, good dude. But there’s an essential problem with all that great advice about making the big bucks: we always listen, listen, and consume the content — and never really make it ourselves. We become passive creators, numb to what really needs to be done.
How This Applies to Expats
And what is that, you might ask? Maybe for you it’s getting out there and ordering an orange espresso, then starting a conversation about how it was weird — or the best drink you ever had.
The point is: me writing this and giving my two cents feels right. Even if it gets zero views, I know it had to be done in order for me to make a difference. More to come soon.
PS: If you’re ever in Lille, make sure you visit Calico coffeeshop on Bd Carnot. Their team and coffee are great. Sit by the window — that’s where I wrote this post. I’ll sign something there once I’m famous 😉
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www.packtothefuture.fr
Hi, I’m Dave.
I know what it feels like to start over in a new country. I’ve lived in Morocco, the United States, Slovakia, and now France, and each move has reshaped how I see home, identity, and belonging. Basketball taught me resilience. Coaching taught me how powerful it is to support others through moments of change. Today, through Pack to the Future, I help expats and international professionals navigate relocation, cultural integration, and the personal side of building a life abroad. This blog is where I share what I’ve learned along the way, reflections, practical tools, and ideas to help you feel more grounded wherever life takes you.
Thanks for being here.
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