Where are you from, really?


"Where are you from, Reader?"

It’s a simple question on the surface, but for many of us with international lives, it’s anything but straightforward.

Do I say the country I was born in, the one on my passport, or the city I currently call home?

Do I define myself by the languages I speak, the cultures I’ve absorbed, or the people I’ve connected with along the way?

I’ve never felt like I fully belonged to one box, one label, or one place. Instead, my identity is shaped by movement, curiosity, and the beautiful blur of cultures I’ve encountered. I carry with me pieces of everywhere I’ve lived, taught, and explored.

Maybe, like me, your humour is British, your work ethic is German, your love of cheese and patisserie feels French and your joy for life is distinctly Spanish.

Maybe your heart feels at home in one country but your mindset belongs to another. Or maybe, like many of my clients, you’ve lived between borders for so long that you've created your own version of home in how you communicate, connect, and carry yourself in the world. That’s not confusion. That’s richness.

You don’t have to choose just one place to belong. You can belong to many. The more you embrace your unique cultural identity, the more confident, clear, and authentic your communication becomes.

English isn't just a language, it's a bridge between your worlds.

In most international business settings now, English is the bridge, not the first language. Which means if you’re presenting to a room where English is the common ground, your job isn’t to show off your vocabulary. It’s to make sure everyone can cross that bridge with you.

For global souls like us, perhaps the better question is this: Where are you going?

Tip of the month

Since love is in the air this month, I'm teaching you one short word with many meanings Reader!

  1. Fancy (to desire or want something) Verb for things, activities, or experiences with a craving or preference.

Example: I really fancy a cup of tea. Meaning: I would really like a cup of tea.

2. Fancy (to be romantically or physically attracted to someone) Verb used for people, often in British English.

Example: She thinks he fancies her. Meaning: She believes he’s attracted to her romantically.

3. Fancy (decorative or elaborate) Adjective for things that are elaborate, luxurious, or impressive

Example: That restaurant is a bit too fancy for me. Meaning: It’s a bit too upscale, expensive or stylish.

February 2026

What's happening soon:

"Say it like a leader" interactive live webinar, I'll be teaching you to speak confidently in meetings

What I created:

Proud to launch digital courses to download for self-study!

What I recommend:

"Art of Travel" by Alain de Botton. This memoir explores why we go elsewhere and what we carry with us as we travel.

Coaching corner

A moment for quiet reflection or journalling, even just thinking about your answers can help you notice patterns and shift your focus.

Which words or phrases make you feel powerful and confident in English? Why do they have this effect?

Meg

P.S I aim to make this newsletter as open and welcoming as my lessons. Tell me what you’d like more of, or less of. I’m listening.

Fully certified Business English coach

“Megan is an excellent teacher! Our classes are so dynamic that the 50 minutes pass too quickly. Having lived in different countries and loving to travel gives her knowledge of other cultures and languages which enriches our conversations.”
Joao, Brazil

Mega Language Coach

I'm an English coach, polyglot, entrepreneur, and digital nomad who loves to talk about education, travel, and business & entrepreneurship. Subscribe to my newsletter, I look forward to meeting you!

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