Seizing Opportunities: Lessons from Global Transitions

In the latest episode of Range of Change, I had the pleasure of speaking with Travis, a seasoned expatriate and humanitarian worker whose life has been defined by bold transitions and embracing the unknown. His journey from the United States to New Zealand, and many more travels beyond, is not just a story of relocation—it’s a masterclass in navigating change with intentionality, adaptability, and courage.

As a change coach, I see a lot of transferable and even learn-able skills in the experience Travis shares for making a successful life shift.

A while back I shared a fun article from Dr. Shigehiro Oishi – I am really intrigues by his work, which emphasizes how both experience and curiosity act as linchpins of a fulfilling life – an am bringing his latest book on my latest trip! His research indicates that when we step outside our comfort zones—whether by relocating, changing industries, launching new ventures, or even exploring a new hobby or city—we expand our capacity for meaning and engagement. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation that can serve as guideposts for anyone contemplating a major transition.

1. The Power of Exposure: Expanding Your Tolerance for Uncertainty

Travis's first experience living abroad in Korea set the stage for his later moves. By immersing himself in an unfamiliar culture, he learned to operate in ambiguity—a crucial skill for leaders and changemakers. Research shows that exposure to diverse experiences enhances cognitive flexibility, allowing individuals to become more resilient and innovative in the face of uncertainty. The lesson? Instead of waiting until you “feel ready” for a big change, start by increasing your exposure to new experiences now. Stretch yourself incrementally so that future transitions feel less daunting.

2. The Illusion of Over-Planning: Why You Should Focus on Direction, Not Details

One of the most counterintuitive insights from Travis’s story is that over-planning can actually increase stress. He noted that when moving to a new country, the small details often don’t go as expected. Rather than meticulously mapping out every scenario, successful transitions require a clear direction rather than a rigid plan. This principle applies to organizational change and personal reinvention alike: focus on the broader strategy, ensure you have your largest stepping stones in place, and trust that you’ll adapt to the details as they arise.

3. A Bias for Action: The Difference Between Dreaming and Doing

Many people fantasize about working abroad, engaging in humanitarian efforts, or making bold career shifts—but few follow through. What distinguishes those who take action? According to Travis, it’s not just an inherent trait but a cultivated ability. His path to humanitarian work, for instance, started with a moment of curiosity—a documentary on National Geographic—that he followed up with immediate research and eventual action. Dr. Oishi’s research reinforces this: those who prioritize novel experiences report greater life satisfaction over time. The key isn’t just dreaming—it’s taking the first small step that turns an idea into reality.

4. Integration Over Assimilation: How to Thrive in a New Environment

A common misconception about expatriate life is that success depends on complete assimilation. Travis offers a different perspective—one that’s particularly valuable for leaders navigating new roles or industries. In New Zealand, the definition of being a “Kiwi” isn’t about lineage but about engagement. Similarly, in any transition, success comes from integrating into a new environment by participating and contributing, rather than striving to erase your past experiences. I have personally witnessed many examples of this in organizations undergoing change. Rather than forcing a top-down cultural shift, create pathways for everyone to integrate and becomes involved, and therefor invested, in the change. For individuals we explore similar concepts in our group coaching offering, prompting ways to integrate a change successfully across the many dimensions of your life. 

5. Seizing the Right Opportunities: The Role of Open-Mindedness in Long-Term Success

At the heart of Travis’s journey is a mindset of openness. Every major shift in his life—from relocating to working in Africa—came from a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities. There is mounting evidence to support the idea that those who view change as an adventure rather than a disruption experience greater well-being. The best opportunities often don’t arrive in perfect packaging; success belongs to those willing to recognize and seize them when they appear. 

And opportunities often feel scary, even when one is approaching them with an open mind and a sense of adventure rather than disruption or obligation. The fear is not the enemy but the tool. It is the push to be alert and activated, ready to work harder and be more open to threat than we are in our day-to-day kore routine existence. All of that is a gift when we’re taking on something new, and not a sign that we should not be engaging.

Final Thoughts: Designing a Fulfilling Life

If there’s one overarching lesson from Travis’s journey, it’s that fulfillment comes not from rigidly executing a predefined life plan, but from embracing experience and curiosity as guiding forces. Whether you’re considering a career pivot, an international move, or a bold new endeavor, the key is to cultivate a mindset that values adaptability over certainty and action over hesitation.

What opportunities are right in front of you that you’ve been hesitating to pursue? If you need help navigating your own transition, let’s talk. The first step toward transformation is closer than you think.