Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a big decision. You’re not just leaving your family and friends; you’re also stepping into a whole new world. One of the biggest challenges OFWs face is adapting to a new culture. This means learning new customs, understanding different ways of doing things, and sometimes, even changing your own habits. It’s not always easy, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can thrive in your new home.
Understanding Culture Shock
Imagine arriving in a country where everything is different. The food smells strange, people talk in a language you don’t understand, and even simple tasks like buying groceries can feel overwhelming. This is culture shock. It’s a normal reaction to being in a foreign environment, and it affects almost everyone who moves to a new country, especially OFWs who might be far from home for the first time.
Culture shock usually happens in stages. First, there’s the “honeymoon” phase, where everything is exciting and new. Then comes the frustration stage, where you start to notice the differences and feel annoyed by them. Next is the adjustment phase, where you begin to understand the culture better and feel more comfortable. Finally, there’s the acceptance phase, where you feel at home in your new environment. But keep in mind that experiencing culture shock is not linear; sometimes you might feel you’ve adjusted, then have a backslide. Knowing about these stages can help you prepare for the emotional ups and downs of living abroad.
Preparing Before You Go
Before you even pack your bags, there are things you can do to make your transition smoother. Think of it as preparing for a long journey – the better prepared you are, the easier the ride will be.
Research, Research, Research: Don’t just rely on stereotypes or what you see in movies. Read books, watch documentaries, and find reliable websites that give you accurate information about the country you’re going to. Learn about their history, their customs, and their social etiquette. For example, in some countries, it’s considered rude to make direct eye contact, while in others, it’s a sign of respect. Understanding these nuances can help you avoid misunderstandings and make a good impression.
Learn the Language: Even if you don’t become fluent, learning some basic phrases in the local language can make a big difference. Knowing how to say “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can show respect and help you connect with people. There are many free online resources and apps that can help you learn a new language. Websites like Duolingo are a great way to start. Learning even a few words can help with avoiding awkward situations when asking for directions or reading street signs.
Connect With the Filipino Community: Before you leave, try to connect with other Filipinos who are already living in your destination country. They can give you valuable insights and advice based on their own experiences. You can find Filipino communities online through social media groups or forums. This is also helpful to know you are not alone in the journey.
Dealing With the Differences: Practical Tips
Once you’re in your new country, you’ll face many challenges of adapting to a new culture. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate those differences:
Be Open-Minded: This is probably the most important tip of all. Try to approach new experiences with curiosity rather than judgment. Remember that just because something is different doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Be willing to try new foods, listen to new music, and participate in new activities. For example, if you’re used to eating rice with every meal, but your new country prefers potatoes, try to embrace the change. Don’t knock it until you try it! Instead of being critical, be open to the possibility that there might be something to learn or appreciate. The open-mindedness helps a lot in adjusting.
Observe and Listen: Pay attention to how people interact with each other. Watch how they greet each other, how they dress, and how they behave in public. Listen to their conversations and try to pick up on their cultural norms. This will help you understand what’s considered acceptable behavior in your new environment. If you’re unsure about something, it’s always better to observe first and then ask for clarification if needed.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re not sure about something, it’s better to ask than to make a mistake or offend someone. Most people are happy to explain their culture to foreigners. Find someone you trust, like a colleague or a neighbor, and ask them to help you understand the local customs. For instance, if you don’t know the dress code for an office party, you can casually ask a workmate before the event.
Find a Support System: Living in a new country can be lonely, especially in the beginning. Make an effort to build a support system of friends, colleagues, or fellow Filipinos. Join social groups, attend community events, or volunteer for a cause you care about. Having people to talk to and share your experiences with can make a big difference in your mental and emotional well-being. Remember the Filipino communities you searched for before going abroad? This is the time to connect with them. Don’t isolate yourself; seek out connections and build relationships.
Learn From Your Mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes when they’re adapting to a new culture. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, learn from your mistakes and use them as an opportunity to grow. If you accidentally offend someone, apologize sincerely and try to understand why your actions were inappropriate. The Filipino “po” and “opo” might not exist in your host country. It’s alright if you forget once in a while, just apologize and try to remember next time.
Maintain Your Own Identity: While it’s important to adapt to your new culture, it’s also important to maintain your own identity. Don’t feel like you have to completely change who you are in order to fit in. Continue to practice your own traditions, celebrate your own holidays, and maintain contact with your family and friends back home. Remember what makes you Filipino, and embrace that as part of your identity. Your culture is a source of strength and pride, and it’s okay to share your culture with others too!
Language Barriers: Communication is Key
One of the biggest challenges for OFWs is often the language barrier. Even if you have studied the language of your host country, real-life conversations can be much more difficult than what you learned in a classroom.
Be Patient: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t understand everything at first. It takes time to become fluent in a new language. Be patient with yourself and with others who are trying to communicate with you. Speak slowly and clearly, and don’t be afraid to ask people to repeat themselves. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and the most important thing is to keep trying.
Use Visual Aids: If you’re having trouble understanding someone, try using visual aids. Point to objects, draw pictures, or use hand gestures to help get your message across. There are also many translation apps available that can help you communicate in real-time. Carry a small notebook and pen in case you need to write down words or draw pictures. This can be particularly helpful when you’re trying to explain something complex.
Take a Language Class: If you’re serious about improving your language skills, consider taking a language class. Many community centers and schools offer affordable language courses for immigrants. This can be a great way to learn the grammar and vocabulary you need to communicate effectively. Also, you’ll be meeting fellow expats who are experiencing similar challenges. Learning together and sharing experiences is really helpful.
Embrace Technology: There are many apps and online resources that can help you improve your language skills. Use translation apps, watch foreign-language movies and TV shows, and listen to foreign-language music. These tools can help you learn new words, improve your pronunciation, and get a better understanding of the culture. Look at YouTube for free short videos on common phrases in your host country.
Homesickness: Missing Home is Normal
No matter how well you adapt to your new culture, you’re likely to experience homesickness at some point. Missing your family, friends, and familiar surroundings is a normal part of being an OFW. You should know this is normal and does not mean you are not strong.
Stay Connected: Make an effort to stay connected with your loved ones back home. Schedule regular video calls, send messages, and share photos and videos. Knowing that you’re still a part of their lives can help ease your feelings of homesickness. Online accessibility has made this so much easier these days.
Create a Home Away From Home: Surround yourself with things that remind you of home. Display photos of your family and friends, cook your favorite Filipino dishes, and listen to Filipino music. Creating a comfortable and familiar environment can help you feel more at ease in your new surroundings. Even small things, like displaying a Philippine flag or burning a familiar scent, can make a big difference.
Focus on the Positive: While it’s important to acknowledge your feelings of homesickness, try to focus on the positive aspects of your new life. Think about the opportunities you have, the new people you’re meeting, and the things you’re learning. Remind yourself why you decided to become an OFW in the first place, and focus on your goals. Sometimes, writing down your goals and sticking it to the fridge works as a reminder.
Seek Professional Help: If your homesickness is severe or persistent, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. There are many therapists and counselors who specialize in helping expats cope with the challenges of living abroad. Talking to a professional can help you process your emotions and develop strategies for managing your homesickness. Many employers offer mental health resources as a benefit; it’s worth checking with your HR office whether this is available to you.
Dealing with Discrimination and Prejudice
Unfortunately, discrimination and prejudice can be a reality for OFWs in some countries. It’s important to be aware of this possibility and to know how to deal with it if it happens to you.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a worker and as a resident of your host country. Understand the laws and regulations that protect you from discrimination and harassment. The Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your host country can provide guidance on your rights. Having knowledge of the laws and practices will greatly help in these situations.
Document Everything: If you experience discrimination or harassment, it’s important to document everything. Keep a record of the dates, times, locations, and details of each incident. Save any emails, messages, or other communications that are relevant to your case. This documentation will be helpful if you decide to file a complaint or take legal action. Having evidence is very important when reporting any incidence.
Report Incidents: If you experience discrimination or harassment, report it to the appropriate authorities. This could be your employer, the police, or a government agency. The Philippine Embassy or Consulate can also provide assistance in reporting incidents. Don’t be afraid to speak up with proper evidence. Sometimes speaking calmly and asserting one’s rights is enough to stop the situation.
Seek Support: Dealing with discrimination and prejudice can be emotionally draining. Seek support from your friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your experiences can help you process your emotions and develop strategies for coping. Don’t keep your feelings bottled up; seek out support and validation. A problem shared is a problem halved.
Staying Positive: Maintaining a Good Attitude
Adapting to a new culture can be challenging, but it can also be a very rewarding experience. Maintaining a positive attitude is essential for overcoming the difficulties and enjoying the benefits of living abroad.
Practice Gratitude: Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life. Focus on the opportunities you have, the new people you’re meeting, and the things you’re learning. Keeping a gratitude journal can be a helpful way to stay positive. Expressing gratefulness every day can make one feel happier in their situation.
Set Realistic Expectations: Don’t expect to adapt to your new culture overnight. It takes time to adjust, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Set realistic expectations for yourself and for others. Be patient with yourself and with the process. The journey towards adjustment might be long, but the end results are definitely worth it.
Celebrate Your Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. Give yourself credit for overcoming challenges, learning new skills, and building new relationships. Recognizing your accomplishments can boost your confidence and motivation. Whenever you can order food at a restaurant or get directions to the bus station, this is already a success and you should be proud of it.
Focus on Your Goals: Remember why you decided to become an OFW in the first place, and focus on your goals. Keep your eyes on the prize, and don’t let temporary setbacks discourage you. Knowing that you’re working towards something important can help you stay positive and motivated. Your family back home will be your inspiration to keep moving forward.
Resources for OFWs
There are many resources available to help OFWs adapt to their new cultures and navigate the challenges of living abroad.
Philippine Embassy or Consulate: The Philippine Embassy or Consulate in your host country can provide assistance with a wide range of issues, including visa applications, passport renewals, and legal assistance. They can also provide information about your rights as a worker and as a resident of your host country. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is also housed within the Embassy which can help connect you with other resources. Knowing where to get the needed help during emergencies is comforting.
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): OWWA is a government agency that provides welfare services to OFWs and their families. They offer assistance with pre-departure orientation, skills training, and reintegration programs. They also provide financial assistance and other forms of support to OFWs in need.
Filipino Community Organizations: There are many Filipino community organizations in most countries. These organizations provide a sense of community and support for OFWs and their families. They often organize social events, cultural activities, and educational programs. Getting involved with the Filipino Community Association can help with easing homesickness; you are still part of the Filipino culture despite being oceans away.
Online Forums and Social Media Groups: There are many online forums and social media groups where OFWs can connect with each other and share information and advice. These online communities can be a valuable resource for finding support, asking questions, and learning about the experiences of other OFWs. Search in Facebook for Filipino Expats in , and you’ll find lots of support groups to join.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to adapt to a new culture?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on various factors, including your personality, your previous experience with different cultures, the similarities between your culture and the new culture, and your willingness to adapt. Some people may adjust within a few months, while others may take a year or more. Be patient with yourself and remember that it’s a process.
What are some common signs of culture shock?
Common signs of culture shock include feelings of frustration, loneliness, anxiety, irritability, and disorientation. You may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems, and difficulty sleeping. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to acknowledge them and seek support. Remember that culture shock is normal, and it will eventually pass.
How can I make friends in a new country?
Making friends in a new country can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible. Join social groups, attend community events, volunteer for a cause you care about, or take a class. Be open to meeting new people and starting conversations. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and initiate contact. Remember that building relationships takes time, so be patient and persistent.
What should I do if I experience discrimination?
If you experience discrimination, it’s important to document everything. Keep a record of the dates, times, locations, and details of each incident. Report the incidents to the appropriate authorities, such as your employer, the police, or a government agency. Seek support from your friends, family, or a therapist. Remember that you have rights, and you don’t have to tolerate discrimination.
How can I deal with homesickness?
To deal with homesickness, stay connected with your loved ones back home, create a home away from home, focus on the positive aspects of your new life, and seek professional help if needed. Acknowledge your feelings of homesickness, but don’t let them overwhelm you. Remember why you decided to become an OFW, and focus on your goals. Building connections in person and at home really helps.
References
1. OWWA Official Website
2. Duolingo
The journey of an OFW is one of courage, resilience, and adaptability. It’s not always easy, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can thrive in your new environment and achieve your goals. Remember that culture shock is normal, language barriers can be overcome, and homesickness can be managed. Embrace the new culture, maintain your own identity, and stay connected with your loved ones back home.
Now that you’ve read this guide, you’re better prepared to face the challenges and opportunities of living abroad. Don’t just keep this knowledge to yourself; share it with your fellow OFWs. Discuss these tips, share your experiences, and support each other on this incredible journey. Consider joining an online community for OFWs in your host country, and offer your insights and encouragement to others who are just starting out. Together, you can help each other adapt, thrive, and make the most of your experience as an OFW.
