6 Years of Lessons from South Italy
Six years ago, I took a leap of faith and moved to South Italy. Reflecting on my journey, I realise just how much this beautiful, complex country has taught me—not just about life here, but about life itself. As I navigate the ups and downs of living in South Italy, I want to share some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learnt, hoping they can inspire or guide you, if you’re on a similar path.
1. Take Action and Embrace Uncertainty
When I first arrived in Italy in 2018, I had more questions than answers. How would I find a job? How would I make friends in a country where I didn’t speak the language fluently? These questions weighed heavily on me and it would have been easy to get stuck in a cycle of overthinking and procrastination.
One of the most important lessons I've learnt is that action is the antidote to uncertainty. You can spend countless hours worrying about the "what-ifs," but ultimately, you need to take that first step, even if you don't have everything figured out. No one is going to set up your life for you. The answers often reveal themselves only after you begin the journey.
2. Judgment is Inevitable—Don’t Let It Hold You Back
Moving to Italy meant subjecting myself to a lot of judgment, especially online. Mentioning plans to move to Italy in Facebook groups often invites a barrage of unsolicited opinions. Some people feel obligated to tell you why your decision is a mistake, listing all the reasons why your life in Italy might be challenging or even unbearable.
Language learning has also been a major area where I've faced judgment. Despite living here for six years, I’m still far from fluent and some people interpret that as laziness. What they don’t see however, is the effort I put into my daily life and the many things I’ve accomplished despite the language barrier.
Judgment often stems from a place of superiority and it’s important to remember that it reflects the other person’s deep-rooted insecurities, not your worth or abilities. Living in fear of judgment is not living at all. Instead, focus on your journey, your dreams and on what you want to achieve.
3. Move Beyond Romanticised Expectations
Italy is one of the most romanticised countries in the world. Instagram is full of perfectly curated images of azure seas, mouthwatering food and picturesque landscapes. While these things do exist, they are only one part of the story. The reality of living in Italy is much more nuanced and, at times, challenging.
If you’re thinking about moving to Italy, it’s crucial to move beyond the glossy images and seek out the realities of everyday life. What does it really mean to live here? How do you navigate the bureaucracy, the language barriers and the cultural differences? Understanding the full picture will help you prepare for the challenges and appreciate the beauty that comes with it.
“Action is the antidote to uncertainty.”
4. Adapt to a Slower Pace of Life
One of the most significant adjustments I had to make was getting used to the slower pace of life in Italy, especially in the South. In a world where everything moves at lightning speed, Italy (particularly regions like Southern Italy) operates to a different clock. Phrases like ‘dopo’ (later) and ‘piano piano’ (slowly, slowly) are as common as ‘ciao’.
Initially, this slower pace tested my patience, especially during my six-month wait for a change of residency. I learned though that stressing about delays and inefficiencies doesn’t change anything. Instead, it just drains your energy. By aligning my expectations with the local pace, I was able to lower my stress levels and enjoy the present moment more.
5. Redefining What It Means to Live
Living in Italy has prompted me to constantly re-evaluate what it means to truly live. Is life about meeting societal expectations, or is it about finding joy and fulfillment in the everyday moments? For me, Italy has become a place where I can explore these questions deeply.
To live, I’ve discovered, is to enjoy the simplicity of a meal prepared with love, to be fully present in the moment and to connect with others in a way that nourishes the soul. It’s about pursuing your passions, not because they impress others, but because they light you up from within. Italy has taught me to slow down, to savour life and to seek meaning in the simple, everyday experiences.
Reflection
Italy has been my greatest teacher over the past six years, offering lessons that go far beyond the typical guidebook advice. Whether you’re considering a move to Italy or just navigating life’s challenges, I hope these insights resonate with you. Life is not about having all the answers before you begin. It’s about embarking on the journey, learning as you go, and embracing the uncertainties along the way.
Italy, with all its beauty and imperfections, is a place that will teach you a lot—if you’re ready to learn.
