Returning Home After Living Abroad: Readjustment Tips

Returning home after living abroad readjustment tips Be patient and allow yourself time to adapt Embrace the changes and challenges

Reverse Culture Shock Understanding the Challenges of Returning Home

So, you've spent months or years living the expat or nomad life. You've navigated foreign cultures, learned new languages, and built a life far from your original home. Now, it's time to return. But don't expect a seamless transition. Reverse culture shock is real, and it can hit you harder than you think. It's that feeling of disorientation and frustration that arises when you return to your home country and find that things aren't quite as you remember them, or that you've changed more than your surroundings have.

Reverse culture shock stems from a few key factors. Firstly, your perspective has likely shifted dramatically. You've seen the world through a different lens, and your values, priorities, and expectations may have changed. Secondly, you might find that your home country hasn't stood still while you were away. New trends have emerged, social norms have evolved, and even the physical landscape might look different. Finally, people back home might not fully understand or appreciate your experiences. They may be curious, but they haven't lived it, and it can be frustrating to try and convey the depth of your journey.

Practical Tips for Readjusting to Life Back Home A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, so reverse culture shock is a potential hurdle. But don't worry, you can navigate it successfully! Here's a practical guide to help you readjust to life back home:

• Acknowledge and Accept Your Feelings: Don't brush off feelings of frustration, sadness, or disorientation. Recognize that reverse culture shock is a normal process, and allow yourself time to adjust.
• Manage Expectations: Don't expect everything to be exactly as you remember it. Things change, and so have you. Be prepared for some surprises, both good and bad.
• Reconnect with Friends and Family: Make an effort to reconnect with loved ones, but be patient if they don't immediately understand your experiences. Share your stories, but also be interested in their lives.
• Re-establish a Routine: Create a new routine that incorporates elements of your old life and your new experiences. This will help you feel grounded and settled.
• Find Familiar Comforts: Indulge in familiar foods, activities, and places that bring you joy. This can help you feel more connected to your home country.
• Stay Connected to Your International Experiences: Don't abandon your international interests! Continue learning the language you studied, cook foreign cuisines, or stay in touch with friends you made abroad.
• Explore Your Home Country with Fresh Eyes: Take the opportunity to rediscover your home country with a new perspective. Visit places you've never been before and appreciate the beauty and diversity that exists within your own borders.
• Seek Support: If you're struggling to adjust, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your experiences can be incredibly helpful.
• Be Patient: Readjustment takes time. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to feel "normal" right away. Allow yourself the space and time you need to adapt.

Embracing Changes and Challenges Building a New Life Chapter

Returning home doesn't have to be a step backwards. It can be an opportunity to build a new and fulfilling chapter in your life. Here's how to embrace the changes and challenges that come with it:

• Identify What You've Learned: Reflect on your experiences abroad and identify the skills, knowledge, and perspectives you've gained. How can you apply these to your life back home?
• Set New Goals: What do you want to achieve in this new chapter? Set realistic and achievable goals that align with your values and interests.
• Embrace New Opportunities: Be open to new opportunities that come your way. This could be a new job, a new relationship, or a new hobby.
• Share Your Experiences: Share your experiences with others, whether through writing, speaking, or simply having conversations. Your stories can inspire and educate others.
• Maintain a Global Mindset: Continue to embrace a global mindset, even when you're back home. Stay informed about international issues and continue to connect with people from different cultures.

Recommended Products and Services for Reintegration Making the Transition Easier

To make your transition back home smoother, here are some recommended products and services that can help:

• Language Learning Apps (Duolingo, Babbel): If you learned a new language abroad, keep practicing! These apps offer fun and engaging ways to maintain your language skills. Duolingo is free with a paid option removing ads, while Babbel is subscription-based, typically around $10-15 per month. Use case: Practicing your language skills during your commute.
• VPN Services (NordVPN, ExpressVPN): If you relied on a VPN for security and accessing content abroad, consider continuing to use one at home. This can help protect your privacy and access region-locked content. These services typically cost $5-15 per month. Use case: Protecting your online activity on public Wi-Fi networks.
• Subscription Boxes (Try The World, Universal Yums): Missing the flavors of your travels? Subscription boxes that feature international snacks and ingredients can help you stay connected to the cultures you experienced. Try The World offers curated boxes with ingredients for cooking authentic meals (around $40 per box), while Universal Yums focuses on snacks from a different country each month (starting at $15 per box). Use case: Trying new foods and reliving culinary memories.
• Travel Blogs and Websites (Nomadic Matt, The Blonde Abroad): Stay inspired by reading travel blogs and websites. This can help you maintain your wanderlust and plan your next adventure. Many blogs offer free content, while some offer paid courses or resources. Use case: Getting inspiration for future travels and learning about different cultures.
• Online Therapy Platforms (BetterHelp, Talkspace): If you're struggling with reverse culture shock or other mental health challenges, consider using an online therapy platform. These platforms offer convenient and affordable access to licensed therapists. Prices typically range from $60-100 per week. Use case: Addressing mental health concerns related to your expat experience.

Comparing Reintegration Resources Choosing What's Right for You

Choosing the right resources for your reintegration depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here's a comparison of some popular options:

• Language Learning Apps: Duolingo is a great free option for beginners, while Babbel offers more structured and in-depth lessons for intermediate and advanced learners. Consider your budget and learning style when choosing an app.
• VPN Services: NordVPN is known for its speed and security, while ExpressVPN is praised for its user-friendly interface. Compare pricing and features to find the best fit for your needs.
• Subscription Boxes: Try The World is ideal for those who enjoy cooking and want to learn about different cuisines, while Universal Yums is perfect for snack lovers. Consider your taste preferences and budget when choosing a subscription box.
• Online Therapy Platforms: BetterHelp offers a wide range of therapists and is known for its affordability, while Talkspace offers a more flexible messaging-based therapy option. Consider your communication preferences and budget when choosing a platform.

Financial Considerations for Returning Home Budgeting and Planning

Returning home also involves financial readjustments. Here are some key considerations:

• Housing Costs: Housing costs in your home country may be significantly higher than what you were paying abroad. Be prepared to adjust your budget accordingly.
• Healthcare Costs: Understand your healthcare options and costs. If you were relying on international health insurance, you'll need to find a new plan in your home country.
• Taxes: Familiarize yourself with the tax laws in your home country. You may need to file taxes for both your time abroad and your time back home.
• Transportation Costs: Transportation costs can vary depending on where you live and how you choose to get around. Consider the cost of owning a car, public transportation, or ride-sharing services.
• Job Market: Research the job market in your field. Be prepared to update your resume and network with potential employers.

Remember, returning home after living abroad is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself, embrace the changes, and enjoy the process of building a new chapter in your life. You've gained invaluable experiences that will shape you for years to come, so celebrate your journey and look forward to what's next!