Coming home after working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a big step. You’ve worked hard, earned money, and gained experience. But adjusting back to life in the Philippines can be tricky. This article will help you understand the challenges and give you practical tips to make your re-entry smooth and successful, so you can truly thrive back home.
Understanding the Re-Entry Shock
Imagine this: you’ve been away for years, maybe even decades. You’ve gotten used to a different culture, a different pace of life, and a different way of doing things. Then, suddenly, you’re back in the Philippines, surrounded by family and friends. It sounds wonderful, right? It is, but it can also be a shock to the system. This reverse culture shock, or re-entry shock, is a real thing, and it affects many returning OFWs.
What does re-entry shock look like? It can manifest in different ways. Some OFWs feel disoriented and confused. They might miss the independence and efficiency they experienced abroad. Others feel frustrated by the slower pace of life, the traffic, or even everyday bureaucracy. Financial stress is also a common trigger, especially if savings are dwindling faster than expected. Feeling isolated and misunderstood is another common emotion. Your family might not fully understand what you went through or the changes you’ve experienced, which can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. According to a study by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), around 2.23 million OFWs were deployed in 2022. Many of these individuals will eventually return, facing the challenges of reintegration.
Preparing for Your Return Before You Even Leave
The best way to handle re-entry shock is to prepare for it before you even leave your overseas job. Think of it as packing an emotional survival kit along with your luggage.
Start Planning Your Finances Early: Don’t wait until your last month abroad to start thinking about money. Create a detailed financial plan. How much have you saved? What are your debts? What are your financial goals back home? Do you want to buy a house, start a business, or invest? Be realistic and conservative with your estimates. A good rule of thumb is to underestimate your potential income and overestimate your expenses. A helpful resource is the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which offers financial literacy programs specifically for OFWs. Explore their resources to learn more about budgeting, saving, and investing wisely.
Stay Connected with Home: Being far away can create a distance, even emotionally. Make a conscious effort to stay connected with your family and friends. Regular video calls, messaging, and social media updates can help you feel less isolated and more connected to what’s happening back home. Talk about your experiences, but also ask about theirs. Show genuine interest in their lives and concerns. This helps bridge the gap and makes the transition smoother when you’re physically back.
Research Job Opportunities or Business Ideas: Don’t assume that finding a job or starting a business will be easy. Start researching potential opportunities well in advance. Update your resume, browse online job boards, and network with people in your field. If you’re thinking of starting a business, research the market, develop a business plan, and explore funding options. DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) has programs that assist returning OFWs with entrepreneurship opportunities. Check their website for training and resources.
Manage Expectations: Talk to your family about their expectations for your return. Do they expect you to support them financially? Do they expect you to live with them? It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations about these issues to avoid misunderstandings and resentment down the road. Be clear about your boundaries and priorities. Remember, you’ve worked hard for your money, and you have the right to decide how to use it.
Managing Your Finances Wisely After Returning
Money is often the biggest source of stress for returning OFWs. Managing your finances wisely is absolutely essential for a successful re-entry.
Stick to Your Budget: Remember that budget you created before you left? It’s even more important now. Track your income and expenses meticulously. Identify areas where you can cut back. Avoid impulse purchases and unnecessary spending. It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to impress people with your wealth, but resist the urge. Focus on building a secure financial future.
Invest Wisely: Don’t let your money sit idle in a bank account. Explore investment options that align with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Consider investing in real estate, stocks, mutual funds, or a small business. Do your research and seek advice from a trusted financial advisor. Be wary of scams and get-rich-quick schemes. There are many investment opportunities available, but it is crucial to choose wisely. If real estate interests you, you can consider investing in provinces where the cost of living may be lower.
Avoid Lending Money: This can be a tough one, especially when family and friends ask for financial help. While it’s natural to want to help, lending money can often strain relationships and deplete your savings. Set clear boundaries and communicate them respectfully. If you choose to lend money, do so with the understanding that you may not get it back. Explore alternative ways to help, such as offering advice, mentorship, or referrals to resources.
Set Up a Savings or Emergency Fund: It’s important to have a safety net in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a separate savings account. This will give you peace of mind and protect you from financial hardship.
Finding a Job or Starting a Business Back Home
Many OFWs dream of finding a good job or starting their own business when they return to the Philippines. This can be a challenging but rewarding endeavor.
Network Actively: Networking is crucial for finding job opportunities or building a business. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on social media. Let your friends, family, and former colleagues know that you’re looking for a job or starting a business. You never know who might have a lead or connection that can help you.
Leverage Your Overseas Experience: Your experience as an OFW is a valuable asset. Highlight your skills, accomplishments, and experiences in your resume and job interviews. Emphasize your adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and cross-cultural communication skills. These are highly sought-after qualities in the Philippine job market.
Consider Franchising or Small Businesses: Franchising can be a relatively low-risk way to start a business. Look for reputable franchises that align with your interests and skills. There are many options available, from food and beverage to retail and service industries. Starting a small business is another viable option. Identify a need in your community and develop a product or service that meets that need. Make sure to research the market thoroughly and create a solid business plan.
Upskill and Reskill: The job market is constantly evolving. To stay competitive, it’s important to continuously upgrade your skills and knowledge. Consider taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing further education. Identify the skills that are in demand in your industry and focus on developing those skills. TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) offers a wide range of training programs, many of which are free for Filipinos.
Re-Connecting with Family and Friends
After being away for a long time, re-connecting with family and friends can be both exciting and challenging.
Be Patient and Understanding: Remember that your family and friends have also changed while you were away. They may have different views, opinions, and priorities. Be patient and understanding, and try to see things from their perspective. Avoid being judgmental or critical. Instead, focus on building relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.
Spend Quality Time Together: Don’t just focus on material things. Spend quality time with your loved ones. Go on outings, have family dinners, play games, or simply talk and listen to each other. These shared experiences will strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.
Communicate Openly and Honestly: Open and honest communication is essential for healthy relationships. Share your feelings, thoughts, and concerns with your family and friends. Be willing to listen to their perspectives and work together to resolve conflicts. Avoid holding grudges or letting resentment build up. For help with communication, you can search online for resources on marriage counseling or family therapy.
Establish Boundaries: It’s important to set boundaries with family and friends after returning home to protect your independence and emotional well-being. Communicate your needs and limitations clearly, and politely decline requests that you are not comfortable with. Establishing boundaries can help prevent misunderstandings and maintain healthy relationships
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Coping with Emotional and Psychological Challenges
Re-entry shock can take a toll on your emotional and psychological well-being. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and to take steps to cope with these challenges.
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t try to suppress or deny your feelings. It’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or anxious. Acknowledge your emotions and allow yourself to feel them. Talking about your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist can be helpful.
Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial for coping with re-entry shock. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that you enjoy. Make time for relaxation and stress reduction techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling to cope with re-entry shock, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide support, guidance, and coping strategies. There are many mental health professionals in the Philippines who specialize in working with OFWs and their families.
Connect with Other OFWs: Connecting with other returning OFWs can be incredibly helpful. Share your experiences, exchange tips, and offer each other support. Knowing that you’re not alone can make a big difference. There are many online and offline communities for OFWs where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
Re-Integrating into Philippine Culture
You might be surprised at how much the Philippines has changed while you were away.
Be Open to New Experiences: Embrace the changes and be open to new experiences. Explore different parts of the country, try new foods, and learn about different cultures. This will help you re-discover your love for the Philippines and connect with your roots.
Learn to Navigate the System: Dealing with bureaucracy and red tape can be frustrating. Be patient and persistent, and learn how to navigate the system. Seek advice from friends, family, or government agencies. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Contribute to Your Community: Get involved in your community. Volunteer your time, donate to charity, or participate in local events. This will help you feel more connected to your community and make a positive impact.
Understanding Available Government Support
The Philippine government recognizes the importance of OFWs and offers various programs and services to support their reintegration.
OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration): OWWA provides a range of programs for returning OFWs, including livelihood assistance, skills training, and psycho-social counseling. They also offer financial assistance for OFWs who want to start a business. Visiting the OWWA office or website can definitely have a positive impact.
DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment): As mentioned earlier, DOLE also provides programs to help OFWs find jobs or start businesses. They offer skills training, business mentorship, and access to financing. Be sure to check their website for details on how to avail of these services.
National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO): The NRCO serves as a one-stop shop for returning OFWs. They provide information, assistance, and referrals to various government agencies and organizations. A visit to the NRCO can help streamline the reintegration process and provide access to a wide range of resources.
FAQ Section
What is re-entry shock, and how long does it last?
Re-entry shock is the feeling of disorientation and adjustment difficulties that can occur when returning to your home country after living abroad for an extended period. It can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the individual and their circumstances.
How can I prepare financially for my return to the Philippines?
Start planning your finances early, create a detailed budget, pay off debts, research job opportunities or business ideas, and manage expectations with your family.
What are some tips for finding a job back home?
Network actively, leverage your overseas experience, consider franchising or small businesses, and upskill and reskill to stay competitive in the job market.
How can I reconnect with my family and friends after being away for so long?
Be patient and understanding, spend quality time together, communicate openly and honestly, and establish boundaries to maintain healthy relationships.
What government support is available for returning OFWs?
OWWA, DOLE, and NRCO offer various programs and services, including livelihood assistance, skills training, psycho-social counseling, and access to financing.
What if I’m feeling overwhelmed or depressed after returning home?
Acknowledge your feelings, practice self-care, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor, and connect with other OFWs for support.
References List
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2022). Total number of OFWs Deployed.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). Financial Literacy Programs.
Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). OFW Reintegration Programs.
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Training Programs.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Programs for Returning OFWs.
National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO). Services for Returning OFWs.
You’ve worked hard and sacrificed much to provide for your family and build a better future. Now, it’s time to invest in yourself and create a fulfilling life back in the Philippines. Don’t let the challenges of re-entry hold you back. Take the time to prepare, plan, and seek support. You have the skills, experience, and resilience to thrive back home. Start planning today, and build the life you’ve always dreamed of! You deserve it! Visit OWWA or TESDA today and start the transformation!
