Although most people will resolve to lose some weight, pay off bills, or get organized, there are many 25 – 30 years old professionals struggling with a premature case of “mid-life crisis,” as they transition from college life to career to family.  Many of these young, career-minded people would do well to consider looking overseas for work to help them prepare fro the next phase of life.

And why not? George Eves, entrepreneur, serial expat, and founder of Expat Info Desk, a comprehensive online information resource for expats worldwide, has seven fantastic reasons why those with the ability to move around, should consider work in another country for 2011:

1) Broaden Your Horizons – When you relocate overseas you given the opportunity to experience a new culture and form social networks with people with whom you would previously never had an opportunity to mix with. These experiences will teach you a lot about yourself and the life you lead, and you will often gain a new perspective of what matters in life. Seeing the world from a different place will allow you to look at things differently and question previously held assumptions. Overall it will be a truly rewarding experience.

2) Travel and Explore – Living overseas as an expat offers you an opportunity to travel extensively and, once you have gained confidence by making the initial leap abroad, you will probably be keen to explore the surrounding countries and areas. The majority of expats have travelled extensively and they are interesting people to spend time with. You may only have one chance at life so make the most of it by exploring the world you live on.

3) Gain Confidence and Independence – There are no two ways about it; moving overseas for the first time can be daunting and stressful. However, by taking the leap into the unknown you will learn more about yourself and your capabilities and ultimately you will gain in confidence. You will quickly learn that you are capable of anything you put your mind to and you will be more likely to take rewarding risks in the future.

4) Advance Your Career – In a 2010 survey by The Economist, it was revealed that 80% of respondents were of the opinion that a stint abroad in a major emerging market would aid career progression. While this may not be guaranteed, time working overseas will undoubtedly improve your resume and offer you learning experiences that you would not have had in your home county; this can only be beneficial to you in the long run.

5) Save Money – A great deal of expat opportunities abroad offer individuals an opportunity to save money. This may be due to a lower cost of living in the host country, and/or there are lower taxes, and/or you are offered an attractive salary for relocating overseas. If this is the case, a few years living and working abroad can offer you an opportunity to really boost your savings and help set up for major purchases down the road like a graduate degree or real estate.

6) Improve Your Standard of Living – In a recent survey by banking giant HSBC, it was revealed that a large number of expatriates have chosen their host country as a permanent abode and plan to remain there for many years as a result of the higher standard of living they experience there.  According to HSBC, expats often experience shorter commutes to work, enjoy better weather and benefit from shorter working weeks.

7) Have More Fun – For the majority of people who experience it, life abroad is fun. Expatriates are generally a very sociable group and often use the fact that they are away from home as a way to make social connections.  It often appears that there are an endless stream of parties, social events and activities. Getting involved is very easy and the majority of expats have a hectic social calendar.