You do however also have to meet a number of other requirements which can vary across the cantons but which typically include:

• demonstrating written and spoken knowledge of a Swiss national language
• integration into Swiss life and culture
• compliance with Swiss law and customs
• not being considered a threat to Swiss national security
• no time spent on Swiss social welfare in the last 3 years, unless you pay back the money received

What parameters do you check or tick? Is it something that you would consider for you and your family in the near or longer term future…? It is really a beautiful country and is most definitely worth it! Count me in!

Before we concentrate on overcoming this issue, we must understand why it occurs. Believe me, you will see this happening in every mundane corner of life, procrastination, diet, exercise and financially. Over 25% of people claim they do not have savings and the most common reason for not building savings for the future is that it can feel like a loss right now. This cognitive effect has detrimental impacts on retirement funds. People have not saved enough for retirement and subsequently compromise their standard of living upon retirement.

Another consequence of the present bias is rushing into investments. Crypto currency is easily accessible; gratifying the urge to invest in one simple click of a button – this often is not a thought-out plan! Subsequently the present bias will be at play when we see the markets drop. An overwhelming urge to vacate the bad situation and associated feelings. Sell and run (sadly locking in the loss!). The present bias is an emotionally driven, cognitive influence that can easily steer us into bad decisions.

So…you have read this far. Now the question should be resonating, how do I control this?

Its relatively simple, it all boils down to a plan. The reason why you are doing something must outweigh the urge for instant gratification. It could be putting the snack aside so as not to spoil your dinner, a smaller rental to build a deposit for the dream home or simply a little here and there to secure your financial independence. Whatever the motivation, it all boils down to the plan and remembering the true reason ‘why’.

Try not to compare everything!

Avoid comparisons between your present situation and what you have left behind. I must admit that within days of arriving in Switzerland I was missing my local pub with a pool table and an “abusive” barman who could within a heartbeat provide a plate of food for a carnivore. As newcomers we tend to over-use the expression, ‘Back in the UK…..at home we have…’. Having made this mistake too many times the advice is simple – focus on what’s in front of you and talk about that; ask questions and seek to understand why melted cheese and bread are so wonderful to share! Remember, the locals here barely acknowledge that cheddar is even a cheese!

Be patient, settling in will take time

The general rule of thumb is to give the ‘settling in’ process at least a full four seasons. Be kind to yourself and others around you!

Arriving in Switzerland during the spring or summer, it is impossible not to be impressed with the country’s natural beauty. The flowering meadows and small streams, soaring snow-capped mountains, lakes and rivers you can dive into and fields strewn with bell-jangling cows all make it feel like you have stepped into a giant jigsaw puzzle scene.

Go hiking in spring and summer, discover the local traditions in autumn, learn to ski or sledge in winter, there is plenty to do and you’ll love every corner of Switzerland. Once you have discovered all there is to offer you will realise that it really is paradise on earth.