FindmyFlis

  When you leave a country to try new things and experience other cultures, there will probably be moments when you feel that you simply aren't hitting the mark, but I just want to reassure any language learners and say that you have to be bold, enthusiastic and hopeful even when you feel like you've bitten off more than you can chew. For more than seventeen years I have intensively studied numerous languages, never backing down from reaching my goals in spite of sometimes being on the receiving end of strong criticism, and I would encourage you to do the same. Everyone's journey is different, but no less important. I think sometimes we can get caught up in trying to please everyone's definition of what fluency is and where we should be at on a certain stage of our journey. There may be people who try to stifle your progress because change can be uncomfortable for others and it can seem to put into question more than just languages. However, something I've learnt is...

  When you have spent more than three years searching for regular work with a strong curriculum and ample experience at home and abroad, patience becomes strained and you start to ask 'why me?' It is precisely at that time that you have to dig deep and find out what really motivates you. For me, the transition from a stable, permanent job to 'accept what arrives' was a real wake up call. What I would suggest is not to become a victim of circumstance. It is easy to fall into the trap as you start to doubt yourself and your abilities, but it is important to stay focused. The secret is to keep moving, get out and about, meet people, use social media and contacts. This is a time to refine your skills. It has been said many times, I know, but the key is how you go about this. It can make you more resourceful and can give you new skills, which in turn can help others. For example, rewriting CVs and knowing how to prepare a good presentation. Do not waste time trying to improv...

  Many companies see themselves as innovative, forward-thinking and open-minded but do any of them have the courage to take on new talent over a certain age? They see a fresh-faced graduate ready to take the next step in their development and, understandably, this is extremely attractive to a potential employer. However, the 2015 film "The Intern" raises a valid point on this subject. Starring Robert de Niro as Senior Intern 'Ben', a man with a wide range of experiences - both in life and the workplace - who, he states, still has 'music in him'. He retired a few years previously and has been actively learning a range of new skills whilst seeking to fill a hole in his life. In the beginning his usefulness to the company is doubted but, as time goes by, his determination and insight into the effective running of a business become apparent. This is not to say that, just because someone is of a certain age, they should automatically be entitled to a position, but ...