ex pat essentials
GOING GLOBAL
ISSUE 1
RELOCATION SUPPLEMENT
Get it right the first time Tips for the relocation process
Relocation Life in China: your family driver Making Shanghai Your Home Offshore Banking THird Culture Kids
Education Four Habits of Highly Successful Learners
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
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Parents, Children and University
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MAKING SHANGHAI YOUR HOME By Kate Lorenz
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oving to a new city is never easy. Whether it’s your first posting or your tenth, you’ll still be leaving familiar surroundings and friends and family, and starting a new adventure that entails new housing, schooling, shopping and transportation, and in general a new routine. Moving to China can be even more overwhelming than moving to other countries, due to the immense linguistic and cultural differences you’ll most likely encounter. Culture shock is a term we’ve been throwing around for years, and the three-stage cycle that goes with it is well documented. In China I’d say everyone goes through each stage to some degree. Stage one is the honeymoon, where everything is exciting and new. This can last from two weeks to six months and is the phase where you think everything is just fantastic. Everything is new, everything is great and you just love being here. Then there’s the negotiation phase, where the excitement turns to occasional frustration, feelings of isolation and even anger. These new emotions are expat essentials
usually spurred by language barriers, differences in public hygiene, traffic safety, social etiquette and a longing for familiar sights and people. The problem with this second phase is that it comes in waves. One day you’re standing on the Bund thinking you’re on top of the world, the next you’re standing in the queue at your local supermarket sobbing your heart out because there’s no mozzarella left. Then, after somewhere between 6 and 12 months, most people move into the so-called adjustment phase. You settle into a routine and grow accustomed to the new culture you’re in. This is when you start accepting where you are, and that life here includes both the good and the not-so-good. Almost everyone goes through these three stages; however, there are a number of ways of shortening the negotiation phase and making Shanghai your home sooner rather than later. Shanghai’s specific challenges Shanghai is a wonderful city: vibrant, growing, cosmopolitan and much more. It’s undoubtedly the most
SHANGHAI IS MORE EXPENSIVE THAN MANY PEOPLE EXPECT.
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habitable city for expatriates in mainland China. However, it does have a number of challenges. It is after all still a developing city, in a vast developing country. Although the local government intends to make Shanghai the next New York, you still only need to scratch the surface to realise that the modernisation of the city is not yet complete. You’ll still encounter a number of frustrating situations, such as the lack of queuing order (very important for the British), poor customer service, miscommunication due to cultural differences and public hygiene standards below what you may be accustomed to. Having said that, the subway, for example, is cleaner than any Western city’s system I have ever travelled on, and there are more road sweepers than anywhere else I’ve been. The systems are all in place – it’ll just take a little time to get them going. Shanghai is more expensive than many people expect. In 2010 a survey named it the world’s 15th most expensive city to live in as an expatriate . Some items are less expensive, such as eating out,
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Pudong Skyline at night
recreation in general and furniture and appliances. However, other items, such as imported groceries, health care, household taxes, government levies and utilities are more expensive than in many cities. Another difficulty is the language barrier. Shanghai is increasingly becoming an English-speaking city, but you should still be prepared for the fact that many locals, including your ayi, driver, taxi drivers and most people working in public services, will speak little or no English. This can make moving to Shanghai challenging, even though it’s no longer classified as a hardship posting. Where to live in Shanghai can be a difficult question as well; there’s just so much choice. This is both a blessing and a curse. If you have limited time to make a decision, the choice can be overwhelming. This can lead to people choosing the wrong location, making their settling-in process in Shanghai more difficult than it needs to be. How to prepare for your arrival There are a number of ways you can
prepare for your arrival to help make Shanghai your home. If you company is willing to provide you with a look-see trip, be sure to take it. Before your arrival, talk to your counsellor and let them know what’s important to you so that your trip can be customised. While you’re on your look-see trip, make sure you visit the areas and locations most important to you. If schools are your top priority, do your research beforehand and visit the school AND the surrounding areas. If nightlife and convenience to your office are most important to you, test the public transport, the taxis during rush hour and which supermarket you would shop at. Also, if your company offers you crosscultural training take this too! Even if you’ve lived in other countries before or have been travelling here, you’ll still be thankful you did so. I personally have lived all over the world and have been in China for nine years now, but I took a recent refresher course and was amazed to find out how many things I am still learning.
Decide whether to bring the family pet or not. Although the concept is nice, there are challenges. Getting your dog into China is relatively easy, but it’s important to note that when leaving China many countries (including the UK and Australia) require 4-6 months quarantine for dogs coming from China. Also, living in a compound in the suburbs is one thing, but there are very few green areas for dogs in central Shanghai. Most parks don’t allow dogs, so if you want your dog to run on grass you have to go out to Sheshan, over an hour from downtown. Therefore, even though bringing Fluffy may seem like it will make your move easier, it might cause more stress in the long run. Make your house a home One of the most important parts of making any city your home is where you live. If you find the right home in the right location you’ll settle into Shanghai quickly. Shanghai is noisy and busy, so your home needs to be a haven, somewhere you can lock your doors and relax. However, it’s important to realise that when renting expat essentials
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you seldom find that perfect place. There’ll always be a compromise. Decide which aspects of your ideal home you’re willing to give up, and which are essential for you. For example: • Is location more important than size?
if they’re not already installed? • What appliances are provided? Depending on the price and size of the property, the appliances below may or may not be provided. • Is there an oven? • Is there a microwave?
• Is a compound with outdoor space and a community for your children more important than being close to downtown?
• Is there a dishwasher?
• Is the quality of the renovation and appliances important?
• Is there a dryer?
• Is having a clubhouse more important than a flat that’s large but has limited facilities?
• Is there a water dispenser?
Make sure you have a good realtor. We suggest going with no more than two, rather than trying to view with everyone in the market. This is because if you find the right realtor and they understand your needs they’ll be able to search the market for you and find the right home. Shanghai doesn’t have exclusive listings, so almost all agencies have access to the same properties. If they don’t have them on their books, they can work with partners to find them. When checking a property, think about these points:
• What other points should I think about?
• Does the washing machine have hot water options?
• Is there a water filter system?
• Is the fridge big enough?
• Is there a lot of renovation going on in the area? • Are clubhouse facilities included?
• Is there enough electricity for the property?
Try and work with the landlord that your realtor already knows. This isn’t always easy in Shanghai, as there are many private landlords. However, there are a number of compounds with good management offices and leasing offices which your realtor may recommend you to go through for your first year in Shanghai. This can make life a lot easier when there are problems in the property and you need the landlord to respond quickly.
• Are the windows double-glazed? If not, is the heating good enough?
How can you furnish and decorate your home?
• Is the water pressure strong enough?
If you have the opportunity, bringing your own furniture can really help in making your rented property your home. If this isn’t possible, then rent a place with simple furniture so that you can then decorate the property to your liking. Bring some personal goods with you, regardless of whether your company pays for shipping or not. Photos, artwork and your favorite ornaments are the best items. Bedding, cushions, blankets, crockery and towels are very easy to purchase in Shanghai, so don’t waste your space bringing these over unless you have an unlimited shipping allowance.
• What is the renovation like?
• Are the air conditioners very noisy? • Does the grouting?
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• Do you need an alarm system? • Do the locks need to be changed? • Do carpets need to be cleaned? • If the property is unfurnished but you need furniture… • Can you help choose the furniture that will be provided? • Can you get an allowance and choose all the furniture yourself? • Can you choose the colour of the curtains? • Will curtain netting be provided? • Will black-out curtains be provided? • Can you help choose the light fittings expat essentials
ONCE YOU’VE GONE THROUGH THE HONEYMOON PERIOD OF YOUR ARRIVAL IN SHANGHAI, YOU MAY START TO FEEL FRUSTRATED, LONELY AND AGITATED IF YOU’RE NOT WORKING
Accessorising in Shanghai can be fun. Shanghai’s IKEA is the biggest in Asia and has everything you need. For more customised items, you can go to the fabric market for curtains, throws and cushions. There are also wonderful shops throughout the French Concession, with endless
trinkets.
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Also, plants and flowers are inexpensive in Shanghai. You can finally have fresh flowers at home every day and not break the bank. So you’ve moved and your house is all set up; now what? Once you’ve gone through the honeymoon period of your arrival in Shanghai, you may start to feel frustrated, lonely and agitated if you’re not working. Even if you’re working it can be a challenge, but at least you get the opportunity to meet people, have regular interaction in the office and hopefully meet some colleagues who you can bond with. If you’re not working, you need to be more proactive. However, in Shanghai there’s a lot to do, and with a little bit of effort you can meet people and definitely enjoy the city. 1. Get involved in the community. If you have children there’s often a lot to do through the schools here. Whether you have children or not, join relevant expatriate societies. Brits Aboard, Expatriate Women’s Society, American Women’s Society, the German Club, to name but a few. These clubs and societies have regular events and you’ll be able to socialise and meet people. 2. There are many opportunities for charity work in China. Shanghai has some excellent charities and after you’ve decided what cause(s) you want to support, contact the relevant
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Puxi Skyline at night
charity and they’ll be more than happy for you to give your time and expertise. 3. If you want to find a job, Shanghai is probably the best city in China to do it as a trailing spouse. There are a lot of choices, providing you’re proactive, flexible and willing to work for most likely a lower salary than you’d get at home. Being locally hired means you don’t get the expatriate perks, and very often your salary falls between that of local Chinese and expatriates. However, through events, chambers and looking through the many free expatriate magazines you’ll find opportunities if you persevere. Eat well! This may seem a strange thing to say, but it’ll make you happier in the long run. A lot of expatriates put on significant weight when they first arrive in Shanghai. The culture here is very much about eating out. There’s a lot of alcohol flowing at events and dinners, and meeting friends tends to be over brunch or dinner. Be aware of what you’re eating so it doesn’t suddenly creep up on you, meaning that on a Bad China Day your weight is yet another thing you don’t like
about being here. Shanghai has an increasing number of organic markets, healthy options in restaurants and fantastic sports facilities to help you keep up healthy habits.
Lifeline Shanghai, a free, anonymous helpline dedicated to helping expatriates with their problems on the ground. (This is also a great contact for any teenager struggling to settle in.)
Learn the language. Shanghai has a lot of English speakers; however living here is much easier if you have the basics. There are a number of ways to learn: group lessons, one-on-one classes or even taking a course at a university. The right option for you depends what you want to get out of your study. Group lessons will help you meet friends; however, one-on-one lessons are usually more beneficial if you need flexibility in your schedule. The university courses are for those who really want to focus and not only learn to speak but also read and write. They are very intensive and can be a great way to keep yourself busy and integrate yourself in Shanghai if you’re so inclined.
Finally, try and embrace the differences and difficulties you encounter. If you can laugh you’ll go a long way in Shanghai. Not everything works as it should, and often with the best intentions in the world people are unable to assist you when you most need it. If you can take a deep breath and see the funny side, you’ll have a wonderful time in Shanghai. Most importantly, please try and make some local friends, or perhaps a language exchange friend if you’re feeling up for sharing your experiences. Don’t forget that the goal is to make your negotiation phase as short and painless as possible. Shanghai is a great place to live, and I hope you’ll enjoy your stay here as much as I do. x
Also, once you’re settled in Shanghai, make sure you have a list of contacts and addresses to help you if you have a problem. Know where your hospitals are, and try some Traditional Chinese Medicine. I can also highly recommend expat essentials
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WHAT’S YOUR EXPAT STORY? NEIL JENSEN EXPLORES THE EXPAT EXPERIENCE
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o what’s your expat story, and how did it come about? Was it something you planned, a long-burning desire, or just something that came out of the blue?
as one or two far-flung outposts too. In 2004 I moved to Hong Kong with the family, which is where we remain today, having now left the bank after an enjoyable 23 years.
Me? Well I blame my mother, although as always, your mother always knows best. Way back at the tender age of 16, having gone back to school to take my A-levels in the northeast of England, it was clear that I needed to be doing something different with my life. Therefore I decided to apply for a job working in a bank.
During my 11 years overseas I have during the course of the job travelled to over a dozen countries in the Middle East and Asia, including a most enjoyable evening at the BISS Puxi May Ball in 2009. On that trip and many others over the years, I gradually came to the conclusion that there are pros and cons in every expat posting, and the way we deal with the challenges provides us with the longterm foundations of our future. I have found that the issues I and my family face are basically the same, wherever we live.
An application form duly arrived in the post and I proceeded to complete all of the questions, albeit struggling with one of them: “Are you prepared to be mobile with the job?” Ever keen to do the right thing, I consulted my mother to see what she thought. Her answer made a lot of sense. “Say yes, because the bus station in Whitley Bay goes just about anywhere.” So, having been accepted for the role with the bank, it was possibly a more mobile move than I expected when in 2000 the bank moved me to the Dubai office. Sadly the bus station in Whitley Bay had long since closed to make way for a shopping mall, meaning that we had to fly, so maybe mothers can’t be right about everything. My assignment in Dubai was initially for three years and involved numerous visits to Saudi Arabia to visit clients of the bank in the main cities, as well expat essentials
Expat conversations when people meet tend to include the following three questions: • How long have you been an expat? • How long did you originally plan to be away from your home country? • How long will you stay here? Very quickly, I realised that the answers to these questions formed a similar pattern: Anything up to 40 years was not uncommon. People rarely had a plan to initially stay away longer than two-three years.
I GRADUALLY CAME TO THE CONCLUSION THAT THERE ARE PROS AND CONS IN EVERY EXPAT POSTING
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Rarely does anyone look further ahead than two more years. Personally, if asked these three questions I’d be no different in my answers; and while I would say to you that for question 3, I would hope to stay overseas for the long term, nobody really knows for sure. A lot of this comes down to the cost of living where you are, your ability to provide the best for your family and ultimately having the financial means to sustain all of this. Challenges exist for all of us both personally and financially, and often the crisis you are experiencing today becomes something you learn from and in the future often (hopefully) laugh about. It may be a problem with the children, relationship issues, personal injury or a complete financial disaster. One of my own classics was that as an avid footballer, I unfortunately sustained a bad knee injury in Dubai, requiring a full knee reconstruction. The operation seemed to go well, but as the days progressed following the operation the pain got worse. I eventually went back to see the surgeon, who expressed concern about the wound. Upon closer probing, he started to pull bugs the size of
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woodlice out of my knee. It transpired that the eggs had originated in the hair of our domestic helper and nested in the bed, and were feasting on the wound each night. These days, I put it down as ‘expat life’ and can laugh about it, though I don’t remember feeling the same way at the time. We all have numerous tales that we enjoy sharing (often more than once) in a social setting, which is one of the upsides of expat life in my view. Sadly, and all too often, we also hear tales of personal misfortune from a financial perspective, often as a result of circumstances but sometimes due to receiving the wrong advice, or more commonly not understanding what is being taken on in the first place. Something I have found fairly common over the years, especially within close-knit expat communities, is a willingness to openly discuss personal financial ventures. In fact, I can still remember sitting in a client’s living room in Saudi Arabia many years ago with an audience of people asking me
more questions about the individual’s investments than he did. The reason for their presence was probably more to do with the fact that the client made the best wine on the compound and any excuse to come and drink it was readily accepted, but it was clear to me nonetheless that people were far more open when discussing personal financial issues than I was used to. Whatever your reasons for becoming an expatriate, you probably have a high level of expertise in your chosen field and are hopefully remunerated accordingly for this. Unfortunately, when discussing how to save and invest this hard-earned money, you are all too often expected to be an expert in all things financial and can be swept along by numerous success stories, jargon and terminology that you don’t understand, just going with the flow on the basis that everyone else is doing it, therefore so should you.
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to buying property, opening a bank account, obtaining a mortgage or investing that hard-earned money. I will explore some of the jargon that is used and strip it down into plain English, hopefully giving you the confidence to ask the right questions and to understand what it is you want to do and how you should do it. While you may not be planning to stay away from home beyond two more years, this may well change; therefore you need to ensure that you are maximising the opportunities that expat life gives you while retaining flexibility for future changes if appropriate. Anything can be as complex or as simple as one wishes to make it, and relevant education not only provides knowledge, but also gives you guidance for planning and managing your life, as well as meeting the objectives you have for you and your family. x
Over the coming issues, I will try to peel back the layers when it comes expat essentials
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LIFE IN CHINA: YOUR FAMILY DRIVER By Ryan Metz
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nquestionably, one advantage of life as an expatriate in China is the availability of affordable domestic help; for some, this means not having to wash dishes, shop for groceries or mow a lawn. Back home, the idea of hiring a personal car and driver may be an unthinkable luxury. In China, however, many expatriates employ family drivers, and not just for reasons of convenience – expatriates cite safety concerns as a key reason. In fact, many companies mandate and even provide a car and driver benefit for expatriates, as a means of helping to ensure safety and reduce potential liability.
arguments can arise. In many cases, this may be attributed to a lack of communication and cross-cultural misunderstandings. Fortunately, many of these gaps can be bridged through patience, communication and cultural understanding.
From getting the children to school on time and shuttling the ayi to the local market for fresh vegetables to ferrying parents on errands and business meetings, the driver is expected to manage all tasks with ease. Understandably, the driver quickly becomes an integral part of the expatriate family’s daily routine. Moreover, with such intimate insight into a family’s life, strong relationships often develop between drivers and their employers. But as with any partnership, friction and
Expats new to China often feel uncomfortable with local driving practices. Riding in a car that is racing through heavily congested streets of pedestrians, bicycles and large buses can be unnerving. After sitting in traffic, drivers often speed towards the next stop light, making frequent and erratic lane changes. Some drivers resist seatbelts, offering reasons such as “they’re uncomfortable” and “wearing a seatbelt is an omen of bad luck… it means I’ll get into a car accident.”
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Safety Customs regarding driving in China may seem completely foreign to many expatriates. Road rules are vague or often ignored. Cars, rather than pedestrians, appear to have the right of way. The perception of appropriate driving speed and safety are not always compatible.
IT’S VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU’RE CLEAR ABOUT SAFETY GUIDELINES WITH THE DRIVER FROM THE ONSET.
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As a result, it’s very important that you’re clear about safety guidelines with the driver from the onset. Some drivers believe that if they arrive at a destination quickly you’ll be impressed by their driving skills. State your preference for driving at a moderate speed, and explain that arriving on time or even late is not as important as driving safely. Taking the pressure off arriving early to work or school will allow the driver to feel more at ease about slowing down. Also, let the driver know that seatbelts are mandatory when driving your family. Provide an example by buckling up your children and yourself, and explain that he must do the same. As the use of safety belts is not regularly observed in China, reminding the driver – even if he seems to forget repeatedly – is important. Tidiness Drivers in China spend most of their waking hours behind the wheel of the car. As a result, the front seat areas may sometimes seem untidy – meals are eaten and naps are taken in the driver’s seat, and the latest newspaper, along with a cigarette and a flask of tea, is often enjoyed while at the helm.
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Typical expat transportation
In most cases, drivers do not own the vehicle they drive. Although the leasing company requires the driver to maintain the vehicle to a certain extent – such as washing the vehicle once a week – it may be vague on other upkeep details. Therefore, many drivers adhere only to the minimum maintenance requirements specified by the employer. As the driver’s employer, it is recommended that you communicate your expectations for vehicle maintenance, and perhaps even keep a regular cleaning schedule on a spreadsheet. Drivers are accustomed to checklists, and are usually happy to sign off on a daily cleaning checklist that shows they are performing required duties. For example, you can ask the driver to wash the car on a weekly basis, clean and vacuum daily and wash the windows each morning, recording it all on a signed checklist. Being a driver entails a lot of down time, and smoking is often a key enjoyment during the quiet hours of waiting. Bear in mind that if you don’t want the driver smoking in the car, emphasis this point very early, ideally before hiring him. A driver who is routinely criticised or denied their
regular smoke will quickly become disgruntled. Personal time The driver may have family living in a remote city, with only a couple of opportunities to visit them each year. To afford the cost of leasing a car, leasing companies place high demands on drivers. It’s not unusual for them to work very long hours, seven days a week. Drivers will often be very accommodating in working weekends or occasional late nights if it means they can earn more money. Chinese customs and holidays are important to the driver. Learning and practising a few of these customs will go far in building a positive relationship. Chinese New Year in February and Chinese National Day in October are times when many drivers want to return home to their families. These may also be times you want to take the family on a trip to the countryside and have the driver be your guide. It’s recommended that during these important Chinese family holidays, you let the driver’s wishes take priority. Some drivers will work the holidays, as it means overtime pay; however, if your driver wishes to return
home during a long Chinese holiday, it’s best to be understanding and make arrangements for a temporary driver. Holidays also offer an opportunity to follow a few Chinese traditions with the driver. The leasing contract will not require it, and your employer will not reimburse you, but giving the driver a red envelope, or hong bao, at Chinese New Year is a respectful and significant gesture. The cash inside the red envelope is often the equivalent of approximately one month’s salary for the driver, or an amount of RMB500-1,000 will also suffice. A small Christmas gift or a box of mooncakes during Mid-Autumn Festival are also appropriate gestures to show you appreciate their work. In most cases, the benefits and convenience of having a personal driver in China outweigh the challenges. On the whole, drivers in China are honest people trying to support their families while working hard to meet your family’s transportation needs. If you treat the driver with respect and understanding, there is a good chance he will become an integral part of your life as an expatriate in China. x
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OFFSHORE BANKING STARTING A NEW LIFE ABROAD By LLoyds TSB
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here are many advantages to living and working abroad, such as a chance to make new friends, discover a new culture and broaden your horizons. But as far as your finances go, there can also be extra complexities and frustrations. Lloyds TSB International talks about some of the common concerns that expatriates face when they first move to work abroad.
Q1: What sort of bank account do I need when I am working abroad? You have two main options for getting a foreign salary paid into your account. Get a local bank account when you arrive; or open an offshore bank account. In some cases, if you are posted overseas by an employer, everything from visas to your bank account to your new home may be organised for you. This will save you a lot of time and hassle. But even if you haven’t opened an offshore account before you arrive China, don’t worry. Just sit back, relax and focus on the immediate things first. You can always set up an offshore banking account later, after you have settled into your new life. expat essentials
Q2: If I already have a local bank account, do I still need to open an offshore bank account? Even if you have a local bank account, you might still want to open an offshore bank account for several reasons. If your salary is paid in a local currency, you may want to be able to convert your salary into a foreign currency easily. Sometimes, you may still have bills to pay, or may have let your flat in your home country. An offshore bank account enables you to set up payments easily over the phone or Internet, and you can arrange standing orders/direct debits in foreign currencies as well via the offshore bank account. Opening a bank account in the currency of your choice can also make a difference because it prevents you from suffering from sudden changes in foreign exchange rates.
Q3: Should I keep my savings at home while I’m working abroad? Relocation and repatriation are very common these days. A large number of our clients move around between different jobs or move back to their home country. Many people in Asia in particular express uncertainty as
IF YOU ONLY PLAN TO STAY IN CHINA FOR A FEW YEARS, AN OFFSHORE BANK ACCOUNT CAN BE IDEAL FOR YOU.
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to where they and their families will be located in a few years’ time, and where their principal source of income will be generated. If you only plan to stay in China for a few years, an offshore bank account can be ideal for you. You can keep your savings in a portable offshore account, giving you easy and convenient access to your savings abroad and allowing you to send money overseas wherever you are without having to go into a branch.
Q4: What if I am constantly relocating? For
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relocating, being able to move your money around and to have your finances carefully organised is especially important. You certainly don’t want to switch banks every time you switch countries. Having a globally accessible offshore bank account means that you don’t have to open new accounts, or close existing ones, when you leave China and relocate to other places. You will have immediate access to your money when you eventually return to your home country or when you have to move to another country. Regardless of your offshore banking and where the funds are held, you must of course be aware of your various tax liabilities depending on your particular circumstances.
Q5: I am British. Is it best to keep my money in an ISA? Unfortunately, if you are living overseas, you will no longer be able
to make contributions to a UK ISA. The only exception to this rule is for members of the British armed forces. Tax is a hugely complex topic, with legislation changing all the time, so as ever with tax planning, you should always seek individual advice.
Q6: If I already have an account with my local branch in my home country, I don’t need to open another offshore bank account, do I? In this case, the first thing you need to make sure is whether your bank is set up to deal with the needs of expatriate customers. Not all banks have the expertise and set-up to meet the international banking needs of their customers when they move overseas, and they may not be able to offer help when things go wrong thousands of miles away, not to mention various other practical difficulties due to different time zones.
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Q7: Is there anything prospective customers should be wary of when choosing an offshore banking provider? In terms of offshore banking services, some banks in Asia simply act as ‘post offices’ for their parent operations overseas. Customers have to bear in mind that dealing with ‘post office’ operations may cause delays and other frustrations. It is therefore important to look for a service provider with a local presence and English-speaking staff. Remember… Wherever in the world you end up, it’s vital to remember that your financial situation is critical. Settling into a new culture is far easier on a sound economic footing, so getting your finances in order with help from an expert is the best first step towards your new life. x
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