For context, I'm a 28-year-old software engineer in NYC. I've passed the N2, visited 10-15 times, grew up as a baby with anime/manga, and just kinda assumed throughout life that I'd eventually move to Japan.
Compared to the US, it's always felt more comfortable and aligned with my nature (e.g. indirectness, collectivism, public order, safety, bigger emphasis on nature, nutrition, walkability, healthcare, transit, etc). And while it has just as many flaws, I've always felt it'd be a better environment for me long-term, and like I owe it to myself to try living there for a few years so I can know for sure.
But as my timeline to enter Japan keeps stretching, I get more anxious and indecisive. I finished my degree and entered the workforce relatively late, so I'm looking at another 2-3 years before a company would realistically sponsor me. And the recent instability of tech work in the US makes me worried about that number increasing, especially because I want to build a family in my 30s and I feel like I'm getting old.
I've also been in a relationship for 1.5 years and my partner recently let me know that relocating from NY isn't in the cards for her anymore. So on one hand, I feel like I owe it to myself to experience this lifelong need of life outside the US, so that I don't have unresolved regret and wondering for my whole life. And on the other, the sacrifices required have gone up.
So I wanted to hear from people who've been in similar situations. Did you make a move for values/lifestyle reasons and leave something behind? Vice-versa? Do you feel like you made the right choice?
by kousuna