Editor’s Note:
This article reflects common experiences shared by expatriate spouses relocating to Indonesia. While situations vary depending on visa status, company policies, and personal goals, the suggestions below are intended to provide practical, constructive ways to build purpose, connection, and personal growth during your time in Indonesia.
Many expatriate trailing or dependent spouses (male and female) experience a profound adjustment upon their move to Indonesia. In their home country, they may have held professional roles, been active volunteers, and maintained strong social networks. Relocation often removes these familiar structures, along with the identity that comes with them.
A significant lifestyle shift for many families is the introduction of household staff. Daily responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping may be partially or fully managed by others. While this is a luxury, it also creates a surprising challenge: more unstructured time than you may have ever had before.
In addition, work restrictions tied to dependent visas often prevent spouses from taking up formal employment. This leads to the very common question:
“What am I going to do with all this free time?”
If your identity has long been tied to your career and family responsibilities, this transition can feel unsettling—but it can also be an opportunity.
Don’t Panic — Reframe the Opportunity
Rather than viewing this period as a loss of purpose, consider it a rare window to invest in yourself, explore Indonesia, and build a new version of your identity that is not solely defined by work.
Below are meaningful and practical ways to structure your time.
1. Build Skills Through Online Learning
This is one of the most valuable ways to use your time abroad—especially for maintaining or advancing your career.
Professional & Career-Oriented Options:
- Online certifications (project management, digital marketing, finance, HR)
- AI and digital tools training (increasingly relevant across industries)
- Data analysis or coding programs
- Language learning (Bahasa Indonesia is highly recommended)
Platforms to explore:
- Coursera (university-level courses from institutions like Stanford and Google)
- edX (professional certificates and degree pathways)
- LinkedIn Learning (short, practical skill-based courses)
- Udemy (affordable, flexible courses on almost anything)
Tip from a career coach: Future employers value candidates who show initiative during career breaks. Listing completed courses, certifications, or new skills on your CV can make a significant difference when you return to the workforce.
2. Join Expat and Local Community Groups
One of the biggest risks for trailing spouses is isolation. The solution is simple—but requires effort: get involved early.
Options include:
- Women’s associations and international clubs
- Chambers of commerce (excellent for networking)
- Sports groups (tennis, golf, yoga, running clubs)
- Volunteer organizations and NGOs
- Cultural and language exchange groups
These groups offer:
- Social connection
- A sense of belonging
- Opportunities to contribute meaningfully
3. Become a Volunteer with Purpose
Volunteering in Indonesia can be deeply rewarding and often provides structure similar to a job.
You can:
- Support local charities or foundations
- Assist with education programs
- Contribute to environmental or sustainability initiatives
- Help organize events or manage projects
Coaching insight: Treat volunteering like a professional role—set goals, take responsibility, and track achievements. This keeps your experience relevant for future career opportunities.
4. Explore Creative and Personal Projects
Many spouses discover talents they never had time to explore before.
Consider:
- Writing (blogs, articles, or even a book)
- Photography or videography
- Starting a YouTube or social media channel
- Learning design, cooking, or handicrafts
Indonesia offers rich cultural inspiration—use it.
5. Travel with Purpose
Indonesia is one of the most diverse countries in the world.
Take advantage of your time here to:
- Visit national parks and conservation areas
- Explore different islands and cultures
- Join organized trips (nature groups, diving trips, cultural tours)
Perspective: What feels “normal” while living here becomes extraordinary once you leave.
6. Invest in Health and Well-being
This is often the first thing people neglect—and the easiest to rebuild.
Options include:
- Gym memberships or personal trainers
- Yoga, pilates, or meditation retreats
- Wellness programs and spa treatments (very affordable compared to the West)
7. Reconnect with Family Life
For those with children, this period offers something rare: time.
You can:
- Be present at school events
- Support your children’s transitions
- Build deeper relationships during a major life change
8. Consider Structured Learning or a Degree
If you’ve postponed further education, this may be the ideal time.
- Complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree online
- Take specialized certification programs
- Build credentials that support your long-term goals
9. Create a Weekly Structure
One of the biggest challenges is not a lack of options—but a lack of structure.
A simple weekly plan could include:
- 2–3 days of learning or study
- 1–2 days of volunteering or social engagement
- Regular fitness activities
- Personal projects or hobbies
Without structure, free time can quickly feel overwhelming. With structure, it becomes empowering.
10. Build a Social Life Intentionally
Jakarta—and other expat hubs—are incredibly diverse.
Make an effort to:
- Attend events and gatherings
- Join interest-based groups
- Meet people from different cultures
This is often one of the most enriching parts of expat life.
Final Thought
What starts as a question—“What am I going to do with all this free time?”—often turns into something very different:
“There’s not enough time to do everything I want to do.”
The difference comes down to mindset, initiative, and willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
Welcome to Indonesia—this can be one of the most rewarding chapters of your life.
