Returning home after working abroad as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is a huge step. You’ve worked hard, saved money, and now you’re ready to be back with your family and friends. But adjusting to life back in the Philippines isn’t always easy. Culture shock can happen in reverse! This article will give you practical tips and advice to make your transition smoother and help you enjoy your “Home Sweet Home.” Because, let’s face it, sometimes “home sweet home” needs a little help to feel truly sweet again.
Understanding the Reverse Culture Shock
Coming back home after spending years in a different culture can bring about a strange feeling called reverse culture shock. It’s like culture shock, but applied to your own culture! You might find yourself noticing things you never noticed before, or things that used to be normal suddenly seem weird. For instance, the traffic in Manila might feel even more chaotic than you remember, or the way people communicate might seem less direct compared to where you worked. These feelings are totally normal. You’ve changed, and so has your perspective. Acknowledging that reverse culture shock is real is the first step to dealing with it. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has studies documenting the various psychological effects of transnational relocation.
Financial Planning: Making Your Money Work for You
One of the biggest reasons people work abroad is to provide a better future for themselves and their families. So, what you do with the money you’ve saved is super important. Don’t rush into big purchases or investments just because you have money now. Create a detailed budget to track your spending and identify areas where you can save. Think about how much you need to support your family, cover unexpected expenses, and build a long-term financial plan.
A great approach to investing is diversification. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket! Explore different options like real estate (but research the location and developer carefully!), stocks, bonds, or starting a small business. Before investing in anything, do your research. Talk to a financial advisor (remember this isn’t financial advice!), read books, and attend seminars to learn about the risks and rewards involved. Remember the story of your neighbor, Aling Maria, who invested her entire savings in a “get rich quick” scheme and lost everything? Learn from others’ mistakes. Being an informed and responsible investor can make a significant difference.
Setting up an emergency fund is a must. Experts often advice having at least 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses set aside. This will safeguard you against unexpected job loss, illness, or other emergencies. Consider opening a separate high-yield savings account specifically for this purpose. Automating savings from your main account makes it even easier to build your emergency fund without thinking about it all the time.
Rebuilding Relationships: Quality Time is Key
Being away from your family for a long time can take its toll on relationships. Your family has changed, and you’ve changed too. It takes time and effort to rebuild those connections. The best way to bridge the gap is through quality time. Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and really listen to what your family members have to say. Plan activities together that everyone enjoys, like family dinners, movie nights, or weekend trips. Start creating new memories.
For your spouse or partner, rekindle the romance. Remember the little things that made your relationship special before you left, and try to bring them back. Go on dates, write love letters, and surprise each other with thoughtful gifts. Communication is crucial. Talk openly about your feelings, expectations, and concerns. Attend couples counseling if necessary. Small things can make big differences.
Your children have grown up while you were away, and they might have different expectations now. Be patient and understanding as you get to know them again. Spend individual time with each child to build a strong connection. Attend their school events, help them with their homework, and listen to their problems. Don’t try to force yourself into their lives right away – let them adjust at their own pace.
Finding a Job or Starting a Business: New Beginnings
One of the biggest challenges for returning OFWs is finding a stable source of income. You might want to start your own business, but that requires careful planning and research. Before diving in, evaluate your skills, interests, and available resources. Is there a need in your community that you can meet with your business? For example, if you used to work as a cook abroad, you could start a small catering business or a food stall. Develop a solid business plan, secure funding, and obtain the necessary permits and licenses. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) website is a good place to start.
If starting a business isn’t your cup of tea, then finding a job back home in the Philippines might be the right fit. Update your resume and highlight your skills and experience gained abroad. Tailor your resume to match the job requirements. Network with friends, family, and former colleagues to find job opportunities. Online job portals such as JobStreet JobStreet.com.ph and LinkedIn LinkedIn are invaluable resources. Be prepared to face challenges like lower salaries and fewer benefits compared to what you were earning abroad. Focus on the long-term benefits of being closer to your family and building a life back home.
Don’t be afraid to take courses or training programs to upgrade your skills. This will improve your chances of finding a good job or starting a successful business. TESDA (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority) TESDA offers a wide range of vocational courses that can help you develop in-demand skills.
Dealing with Expectations: Managing Family and Friends’ Expectations
Often family and friends have certain expectations of you when you come home. They might expect you to be wealthy and generous, or they might rely on you for financial support. It’s important to set boundaries and manage those expectations from the start. Have open and honest conversations with your family about your financial situation. Let them know that while you want to help, you also need to secure your own future.
Don’t feel pressured to lend money to everyone who asks. You worked hard for your money, and you have the right to decide how to spend it. If you choose to lend money, do so with the understanding that you might not get it back. Consider giving gifts or providing support in other ways, such as helping with household chores or childcare. Don’t worry about impressing others with your wealth. The most important thing is to live within your means and secure your financial future.
Remember, it is okay to say “no.” Protecting your financial stability is important for both you and your family in the long run.
Taking Care of Your Mental and Physical Health
Adjusting to life back home can be stressful, so it’s important to prioritize your mental and physical health. Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with friends. Get regular exercise, eat a healthy diet, and get enough sleep. Stay away from vices. Maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Connect with other returning OFWs to share experiences and support each other. You’re not alone in this journey. There are many online and offline communities where you can connect with fellow OFWs. Share your challenges and successes, and learn from each other’s experiences. Knowing that you’re not alone can make a big difference.
Seek professional help if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. There’s no shame in seeking help. Several organizations offer mental health services, particularly for OFWs. Talk to a therapist or counselor who can provide support and guidance. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.
Embracing the Positive Aspects of Being Home
While adjusting to life back home can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with your roots and enjoy the things you missed while working abroad. Spend time with your family and friends, explore the beauty of the Philippines, and rediscover the joys of your culture. Attend local festivals, visit historical sites, and try different types of street food. Savor the familiar tastes and smells of your hometown.
Find ways to give back to your community. Volunteer your time, donate to charitable organizations, or start a project that benefits others. Your experiences and insights gained abroad can make a positive impact on your community. Embrace the positive aspects of being home and create a fulfilling life for yourself and your family.
Addressing Common Concerns and Questions
A lot of OFWs have the same questions as they transition back home. Don’t worry, you are not alone!
FAQ Section
What should I do if I feel homesick for the country where I worked?
It’s completely normal to miss the place where you spent a significant amount of time, especially if you had good experiences there. Acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself time to grieve the loss of that life. Stay in touch with friends you made abroad through social media or video calls. Focus on the positive aspects of being back home and find ways to recreate some of your favorite experiences. For example, if you loved the food in your host country, try cooking those dishes at home.
How do I deal with the feeling that my family doesn’t understand what I went through abroad?
It can be difficult for your family to fully understand your experiences if they haven’t lived abroad themselves. Be patient and try to explain your feelings and challenges in a way that they can understand. Share stories about your experiences and show them photos or videos. Listen to their perspectives as well, and try to bridge the gap between your different worlds.
What if I run out of money sooner than expected?
This is a common concern, so it’s important to have a plan in place. Review your budget and identify areas where you can cut back on spending. Look for ways to generate additional income, such as freelancing or part-time work. Consider seeking financial advice from a professional. Avoid taking on unnecessary debt and prioritize essential expenses.
How do I adjust to a slower pace of life in the Philippines after working in a fast-paced environment abroad?
It can take time to adjust to a different pace of life. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself time to unwind. Focus on enjoying the simple things in life, such as spending time with family, relaxing in nature, or pursuing hobbies. Set realistic expectations and avoid trying to do too much too soon.
What if I feel like I don’t fit in anymore in my own country?
This is a common feeling called reverse culture shock. Remember that you’ve changed, and your perspective has shifted. It takes time to readjust to your own culture. Connect with other returning OFWs who understand what you’re going through. Focus on the positive aspects of being home and find ways to reconnect with your roots.
References
National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
Instead of a typical conclusion, I would like to encourage you today to take action. Returning home is a big change, and it’s okay to ask for help. Talk to friends, family, or even a professional if you’re struggling. Remember all the hard work you put in as an OFW. Now, invest that same energy into building a happy and fulfilling life back home. Don’t just dream about “Home Sweet Home” – make it a reality! Start by implementing one or two of these tips today. You’ve got this!
