I guess we in the third world do not know what '
good life' is and they in the first world do not know what a '
good wife' is !
Life is pretty even-steven, hain na?
I pretty much lived in the same situation elsewhere in the developed world. And to add my two bit, out of that experience :
1.] One must have a '
strategy/plan' before one lands, in line with the opportunity available yonder and what one's countrypeople are recognised for .... eg. Indians for tech and hard work, or mathematical/ statistical finesse, Chinese for skilled handiwork.
Try and gather a rare or in-demand skill, if you don't have one already.
(of course, I realise that it is easier said .... )
2.] Have yr family's (esp. spouse's) prior commitment that
together u will move hell, that u will succeed ... come what may !
3.] Be mentally prepared for the worst even be4 you have stepped outside yr homeland.
Never depend on friends or relatives being there. One will always be better off assuming that they will not help.
Rabindranath Tagore once said :
Aikla chalo re ( In endeavour ... walk alone)
4.] Have several '
fall-back' or '
stock' options. Keep speedily attempting yr main and alternative plans, one after the other.
Don't lose heart or time.. Courage and speed are handy friends !
5.]
Never say no to the first job that comes yr way. If you don't like it, do it and keep trying for a better one. The last thing u can ever be in a foreign land is arrogant or reckless.
Remember, money, however little will atleast give you 'staying' power.
6.] Have '
meaningful' flexibilty of thought. Be ready to alter or change yr 'strategies/plans' mid course, if the situation so demands.
7.] If all fails, fill yr chest with enough pride that u tried yr very best and pack yr bags. Try yr luck elsewhere in the world or at home.
No one ever loses his share of the sky !