The Behind-the-Scenes of a High-Performer Expat

From a Small Slovenian Town to a Global Life

Singapore - Igor Vincetic comes from a small town in Slovenia, where he grew up in a warm family and community with strong values. Very early on, he decided to work abroad — and that’s how he became a true serial expat, following the call of his career path from one country to another.

His very first expatriation was a real wake-up call. It was the hardest for him — not because of the country, but because of what was happening within. As we often say at Expat Coaching Corner: “Expatriation is a human adventure above all, and it starts with ourselves.”

The Inner Roller Coaster

Igor shared:

“I’m a positive, dynamic, and generally happy person. But when I arrived in the US, I was surprised by my mood swings — it felt like being on a constant roller coaster of emotions — and I almost didn’t recognize myself. Sometimes I felt super energized, then suddenly low, alone, and homesick for no clear reason.”

“I had to work a lot on myself,” Igor confesses.

This inner work cannot be avoided if you want to move forward. On the contrary, it needs to be addressed — so that we can start to see and unlock the opportunities right in front of us.

The Mindset Shifts that Transformed my Expat Journey

#1- Self-awareness is the foundation of resilience.

“I learned that understanding myself — my reactions, emotions, and needs — is not a luxury but a necessity. The more I knew what triggered me, the faster I could adapt. Self-awareness helped me turn challenges into learning experiences instead of emotional roadblocks.”

# 2 - I’m the narrator of my journey, not a passenger.

I realized that happiness isn’t something I find in a place —  True happiness begins when we take responsibility for our perspective. I’m not shaped by circumstances — I shape them through the lens I choose to see life through.

#3. Connection is the heart of expatriation

I realized that the people I meet shape my experience far more than the place itself. Building friendships and deep connections made life abroad easier, gave me a sense of belonging, and became one of the pillars supporting my happiness and well-being.

Personal growth gave him the keys to better navigate the world and seize new opportunities.

From Self-Work to Adaptation

That inner work paid off — with sustainable results. He had done the heavy lifting.

During his following moves abroad, he wasn’t working on himself anymore — he was working on adapting to his new environment: the country & company culture, the social codes, traditions, lifestyle... His mindset was ready and fully equipped to adapt, embrace, learn, grow, and perform.

“The higher you play, make sure your team — the family — is playing with you, because the game gets harder.”

That’s a real challenge for many expats — not because they don’t want to, but because they don’t always know how, and they don’t have time.

When the Family Becomes Part of the Game

Raising young children is always full of surprises, even in a place you’ve called home for years. My kids were born in Singapore and are now four, and watching them explore the world around them has been both joyful and humbling.

Learning and growing together

Parenting little ones is a journey of learning together. It’s about listening, paying attention, and adapting as they grow. Some days are calm and easy, others come with tears, tantrums, or surprises — and it’s often in those moments that I learn the most.

Communication Beyond the Surface

“Even at four, kids don’t always show how they’re really feeling. A simple ‘I’m fine’ can hide anything from boredom to frustration. I’m learning to notice the small cues, give them space to express themselves, and support them when they need it.

Parenting here has been a lesson in patience, presence, and humility. It’s not about perfection — it’s about growing alongside them, celebrating the little victories, and creating a sense of home and belonging every day”

Igor became aware that he had to read between the lines, take the time to really listen — even with his demanding position and limited time.

Because leadership applies everywhere from your employees all the way to your family.

“We take care of our team so they can thrive. Making this a priority is key.”

The Invisible Side of Success

With a high position comes a higher ticket.

People often see only the highlights - what they see on instagram, but the reality is richer and more complex. Life here brings moments that challenge and inspire me, new horizons to explore, and experiences that keep things fresh — alongside long working hours, responsibilities, high pressure, and sometimes limited time for friends and family. 

“That’s my balance today, and it works for me. It will surely evolve as the years — and my kids — grow.”

Sustainable Leadership: Staying Grounded

Keeping yourself grounded in your core values, checking in often, and allowing things to evolve — that’s what sustainable leadership looks like.

“There are rules I follow, things I believe in.”

These guidelines help Igor stay grounded in his personal leadership — both professionally and personally.

“For me, sustainable leadership starts with knowing who I am and what I stand for. I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting on my core values and the principles I want to guide both my professional and personal life. These non-negotiables shape how I make decisions, interact with my team, and respond to challenges.”

“I also believe that working on yourself is absolutely essential. Your well-being, mindset, and self-awareness are the foundations of effective leadership — they can never be neglected. The higher you grow professionally, the more you realize that you can’t do it alone. Seeking support, whether from a mentor, coach, or trusted peer, isn’t a weakness — it’s part of being a responsible and sustainable leader.”

“Leadership isn’t static; it evolves as situations and people evolve. Allowing flexibility while staying grounded in your principles, investing in your own growth, and fostering genuine connections with others are key pillars of a leadership style that lasts.

Conclusion

Igor’s story is a reminder that behind every high-performing expat, there is a human journey — full of doubts, inner work, and growth. Expatriation is not just a career choice; it’s a lifelong learning experience that tests your values, resilience, and relationships.

In the end, true success abroad doesn’t come from adapting to the world — but from aligning who you are with the world you choose to live in.

Anne Guslandi 🌐