Embracing Change

Humans are creatures of habit, and most of us find comfort in staying within our comfort zones, even when it no longer serves our growth. Sometimes, however, stepping out of that zone is exactly what we need. One such instance for me was moving away from my home—perhaps the most comforting place I’ve known. Two and a half years ago, I made the decision to leave India and explore new opportunities in a completely unfamiliar land.

I was born and raised in India, where I completed my bachelor’s degree in physiotherapy and began working in the field. I gained valuable experience not only in physiotherapy but also in life, learning much about people and the world around me. Living in Mumbai with my family, life was comfortable and familiar. Throughout my undergraduate years, I dreamed of pursuing a master’s degree in Australia, but when I graduated, COVID-19 changed everything, bringing many plans to a halt. I had started working, grew comfortable in my routine, and eventually let go of the idea of studying abroad.

However, three years ago, with encouragement from my parents, I began applying for a master’s program in Australia. I ended up pursuing my master’s in Adelaide, and from the moment I decided to apply, to the moment I stepped onto campus, everything seemed daunting. Gathering the necessary documents, packing up 25 years of my life into a 30 kg luggage allowance—it was all overwhelming. Leaving behind family, friends, and everything I had known to start fresh in an unfamiliar place was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done. Moving isn’t just a change of geography; it’s an emotional journey.

In the beginning, if someone had told me I would want to continue to stay in Australia after my master’s program and work here as a physiotherapist, I would not have believed them. The differences between Australia and home were so striking—the weather, the people, the culture, the accents. I remember arriving at Adelaide airport, feeling completely out of place, and longing to return home. It took days, then weeks, and honestly, months, before I began to accept that I was no longer in the place I once called home.

Adjusting to a new life, especially in a foreign country, is never easy. It’s a mix of emotions—excitement, nervousness, happiness, and even sadness all at once. But as I began to feel more at home in Adelaide, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to live and work in Ballarat. Looking back, that move feels easier, though still significant. I look forward to continuing to grow, learn, and contribute to both my profession and my personal journey here.

Change doesn’t always have to be monumental. While moving to a new country and pursuing a master’s degree may seem like a huge shift, sometimes it’s the small changes that can make the biggest impact. Whether it’s stepping out of a routine, trying something new, or even just changing the way we think about a situation—these small changes can lead to growth in ways we never expected. Change, in any form, is a powerful tool for self-discovery and progress, and often, it’s the small steps that help us build the courage to take on the bigger ones.

Twinkle Modi

Physiotherapist

Lake Health Group