Navigating friendships that often feel temporary or surface-level due to constant moves

Many of us know the feeling of packing up our lives and moving to a new place, leaving behind connections that once felt solid. As third-culture kids, it seems like we’re always saying goodbye to friends who understand the unique challenges of our upbringing. It can be tough when friendships often feel temporary or surface-level, making it hard to build deeper connections. One thing that has helped me is finding ways to create shared experiences, even if they’re brief. Whether it’s joining a local club, taking a class, or participating in community events, these moments can foster connections with people who get it. I remember attending a photography workshop after moving to a new city. I met others who also felt like outsiders, and we bonded over our shared love for capturing the world around us. Those friendships may not have been long-term, but they provided a sense of belonging during a time of transition. Another approach some of us find valuable is to embrace technology to maintain connections with people from our past. A simple message or video call can bridge the gap between moves and remind us that we’re not alone in this experience. I’ve found that staying in touch with friends from previous places has helped me feel grounded, even when I’m in a new environment. Having those connections allows me to share my feelings of displacement, and it’s comforting to know that someone understands. It’s also important to acknowledge that feeling temporary can be deeply frustrating. We might question whether it’s worth investing in new friendships if we’ll just have to leave again. But many of us have discovered that even fleeting friendships can enrich our lives in meaningful ways. I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty in the moment — even if it’s just a short time together, it can create lasting memories that help us navigate the ups and downs of our journey. Anyone else dealing with this? How do you handle the challenge of making friends when every move feels like a fresh start? Sharing our experiences can help us feel a little less alone in this ever-changing adventure.