Leaving Home for China : The Best Decision I Ever Made?
Leaving home is never easy, especially when that home is as iconic as India. But for me, the decision to leave wasn’t just about moving to a new country—it was about finding a place that truly felt like the right fit. So, why did I leave India for China? Let me take you on that journey.
Author : Sarika Verma | 19/03/2025
Why I Chose China Hey everyone! This is Sarika Verma , Living in China since 2019. today, I’m sharing a deeply personal story—why I left India for China. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it turned out to be one of the best choices I’ve ever made. Let’s dive in.
Growing Up in India I grew up in India, surrounded by family, friends, and a culture that shaped me into who I am today. The food, the festivals, the sense of community—it was home. Life was always busy, yet deeply meaningful. But as I grew older, I started asking myself deeper questions: Is this really the life I want to live?
Many of us experience this feeling at some point. We start wondering if there’s something more—more excitement, more challenges, or new opportunities. And for me, that’s where China came in.
Why China? I know what you’re thinking—why China? The two countries have their political and historical differences, but for me, it was about the opportunities. China was booming—not just economically, but in terms of innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. The country was at the forefront of global trends, and I wanted to be a part of that.
Let me be clear—I wasn’t obsessed with China before moving. I didn’t even speak the language. But I was curious. I wanted to understand this massive, diverse country that was shaping so much of the world’s future.
India vs. China: The Key Differences India is an incredible country—colorful, loud, and full of life. Family is central, traditions are deeply rooted, and there’s a strong sense of belonging. But at some point, I felt stuck. My career was stable, my social life was great, but I lacked new challenges. I wasn’t growing in the way I wanted to.
China, on the other hand, felt dynamic. The energy, the ambition, and the sheer pace of development were unlike anything I had experienced before. There was a sense of freedom I hadn’t felt in India. I found myself becoming more creative, more engaged in learning, and more motivated to push myself.
Adjusting to Life in China Arriving in China was like stepping into a whole new world. The language barrier was tough, cultural misunderstandings were common, and at times, I felt completely lost. But despite the challenges, China became an incredible teacher. I learned how to adapt, navigate unfamiliar situations, and build new relationships from scratch.
Then, there were the unexpected joys. I fell in love with Chinese food—it’s so much more than what we see in India. The people were warm and open, and despite the differences, there was a universal sense of hospitality that made me feel at home.
The Work Opportunities One of the biggest factors in my decision was career growth. The job market in China is unlike anything I’d seen before. Industries like tech, education, and tourism were growing rapidly, and the potential for professional development was huge. I wasn’t just looking at China as a tourist—I saw it as a place to build something meaningful.
Quality of Life: A Comparison
Infrastructure & Transport
India’s traffic congestion is a daily struggle. Public transport, while improving, still has a long way to go.
China’s metro systems are fast, clean, and efficient. Traveling here is far less stressful.
Cleanliness & Public Spaces
In many Indian cities, cleanliness is a challenge due to rapid urbanization and overcrowding.
China invests heavily in public hygiene. Streets are regularly cleaned, and public spaces are well-maintained.
Safety & Security
While India has safe areas, certain regions face safety concerns, especially at night.
In China, I feel safe walking alone, even late at night. Security cameras and law enforcement presence create a sense of order.
Social Life: India vs. China In India, social life revolves around family and community, which can sometimes feel like an obligation. Questions like “When will you get married?” or “When are you having kids?” follow you like a shadow. While the love and support are immense, it can feel overwhelming.
In China, social life is more fluid. Friendships are formed based on shared interests rather than obligations. I found a community where I could truly be myself, pursuing my passions without societal pressure.
Final Thoughts India is a country of rich history and culture, and I’ll always love it. But sometimes, stepping out of your comfort zone is the only way to grow. China has given me new opportunities, a fresh perspective, and a sense of freedom I never knew I needed.
Life here isn’t perfect. There are challenges, cultural differences, and moments of frustration. But those struggles make the journey worthwhile. They push you to learn, adapt, and evolve. And for me, that’s exactly what I was looking for.
If you’ve ever thought about making a big move in life, whether it’s to a new country, a new career, or just stepping outside your comfort zone—I say go for it. You never know where the journey might take you.
Thank you for being here and listening to my story. If you’ve had a similar experience or are thinking about making a big move yourself, drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
