Coming home after working abroad is exciting, but it’s also a big change. This guide is here to help you adjust back to life in the Philippines, both emotionally and practically. We’ll cover everything from managing your finances to reconnecting with family and finding your place back in your community. Welcome home, Kabayan!
Dealing with Reverse Culture Shock
You might think that coming home would be easy, but many OFWs experience something called “reverse culture shock.” This happens when things that used to feel normal suddenly seem strange or frustrating. Maybe the traffic feels worse than you remember, or you find yourself missing the independence you had overseas. It’s perfectly normal to feel this way, and it doesn’t mean you made a mistake by coming home. Think of it as adjusting to a new version of your old life. One of the most common observations is the changing landscape of the Philippines after being away for some time. As cities expand, you might hardly recognize what once was familiar.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Reverse culture shock can show up in different ways. You might feel irritable, sad, or anxious. Some OFWs feel isolated, even when surrounded by family. You might find yourself comparing everything to your life abroad, often focusing on the negatives back home. Other symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and even physical complaints like headaches or stomach problems. If you notice any of these signs, remember that you’re not alone. A study on the psychological well-being of Filipino migrant workers highlights the importance of mental health support during repatriation and reintegration.
Tips for Easing the Transition
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t try to ignore the negative emotions. Let yourself feel them, and then try to understand why you’re feeling that way.
- Talk to Someone: Share your experiences with family, friends, or other OFWs. Talking about it can help you process your feelings. Consider joining online forums or support groups for returning OFWs.
- Focus on the Positives: Remind yourself of the reasons why you wanted to come home. Think about the family and friends you missed, and the things you love about Filipino culture.
- Be Patient: It takes time to adjust. Don’t expect to feel completely normal right away. Give yourself grace and allow yourself to go through the process.
- Get Involved: Participate in activities that you enjoy. This could be anything from joining a sports team to volunteering in your community. Staying active can help you feel more connected and grounded.
Managing Your Finances Back Home
One of the biggest challenges for returning OFWs is managing their finances. It’s easy to get caught up in spending money on things you missed while you were away, or to feel pressured to help family members financially. But it’s important to be smart about your spending and to plan for the future.
Creating a Budget
Before you start spending, sit down and create a budget. Figure out how much money you have, how much you need to spend each month, and how much you can save. Be realistic about your income and expenses. Don’t forget to include things like housing, food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment as well as remittance, if there any.
Investing Wisely
Think about ways to invest your money so it can grow over time. This could include investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or real estate. Consider opening a time deposit account to earn some interest while keeping your money safe. Seek advice from a financial advisor if you’re not sure where to start. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) offers resources on financial literacy that can be highly beneficial. Also, avoid get-rich-quick schemes. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Avoiding Debt
Be careful about taking on debt. Avoid using credit cards unless you can pay them off in full each month. Don’t borrow money for unnecessary expenses. Remember that interest rates can add up quickly, making it difficult to pay back what you owe. Prioritize paying off existing debts before taking on new ones.
Starting a Business
Many OFWs dream of starting their own business when they come home. This can be a great way to create a stable income and be your own boss. But it’s important to do your research and plan carefully before you start this journey. It is important to have detailed market research on the business you intend to launch.
Planning Ahead
Consider taking courses from DOLE specifically designed to train OFWs for entrepreneurship. Training courses, for instance, are offered under the National Reintegration Program (NRP). Plan for retirement. Even if it seems far away, the earlier you start saving, the better.
Reconnect with Family and Friends
One of the main reasons OFWs come home is to be closer to family and friends. But reconnecting can be more challenging than you might expect. You and your loved ones have all changed while you were away, and it takes time and effort to rebuild your relationships.
Addressing Expectations
Family members may have certain expectations about your role and responsibilities now that you’re back. They might expect you to provide financial support or take on more household chores. It’s important to have open and honest conversations about these expectations and to set realistic boundaries. For instance, if one of the reasons you came home was to spend more time with your kids, make sure that’s prioritized in your routines.
Making Time for Loved Ones
Make an effort to spend quality time with your family and friends. Plan regular activities together, such as family dinners, movie nights, or outings to the beach. Put down your phone and be present in the moment. Listen actively when they talk, and show that you care about their lives. Involve yourself in family matters.
Dealing with Conflicts
Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship. When disagreements arise, try to communicate calmly and respectfully. Listen to the other person’s point of view, and try to find a compromise. Don’t let arguments escalate into shouting matches. Remember that your relationships are more important than winning an argument.
Adapting to New Roles
You might find that your role in the family has changed while you were away. Perhaps a sibling has taken over your responsibilities, or your children have grown up and become more independent. Be flexible and willing to adapt to these changes. Don’t try to force things back to the way they were. Instead, focus on building new relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.
Finding Your Place in the Community
Coming home also means finding your place in your community. This could involve getting involved in local activities, making new friends, or simply rediscovering the things you love about your hometown.
Getting Involved
Look for opportunities to get involved in your community. This could include volunteering for a local charity, joining a civic organization, or participating in community events. Meeting new people and contributing to your community can help you feel more connected and fulfilled. If you feel strongly about a subject, see if there’s a group or cause it’s related to.
Rekindling Old Friendships
Reach out to old friends and reconnect with them. Invite them for coffee, go out for dinner, or simply chat on the phone. Catching up with people who know you well can help you feel more grounded and connected to your roots. Don’t be afraid to reach out; most people will be happy to hear from you. Consider sending a group invite to get together.
Exploring Your Interests
Take time to explore your interests and hobbies. This could involve taking a class, joining a club, or simply pursuing a personal project. Doing things you enjoy can help you feel more fulfilled and can also be a great way to meet new people. For instance, if you enjoy painting, consider joining a local art class.
Adjusting to the Pace of Life
The pace of life in the Philippines might be different from what you’re used to. It might be slower, more relaxed, or less structured. Be patient and allow yourself time to adjust. Don’t try to force things to happen too quickly. Embrace the slower pace of life and enjoy the moment.
Dealing with Employment Challenges
Finding a job can be one of the biggest challenges for returning OFWs. The Philippine labor market can be competitive, and it may take time to find a job that matches your skills and experience. There are employment portals specifically designed for returning OFWs.
Updating Your Skills
Consider updating your skills and knowledge to make yourself more competitive in the job market. This could involve taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing further education. Investing in your skills can help you land a better job and increase your earning potential. TESDA offers various training programs that can help enhance your skills.
Networking
Networking is essential when looking for a job. Reach out to your friends, family, and former colleagues and let them know you’re looking for work. Attend job fairs and networking events. The more people you know, the more likely you are to find a job.
Crafting a Strong Resume
Make sure your resume is up-to-date and highlights your skills and experience. Tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job requirements. Ensure your resume is free of errors and easy to read.
Preparing for Interviews
Practice your interviewing skills. Research the company you’re interviewing with and be prepared to answer common interview questions. Dress professionally and arrive on time. Be confident and enthusiastic, and show that you’re a good fit for the company.
Exploring Alternative Options
If you’re struggling to find a traditional job, consider exploring alternative options, such as freelancing, consulting, or starting your own business. These options can give you more flexibility and control over your career. A side hustle could be a great way to supplement income while waiting for full time opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions OFWs have when returning home, with straightforward answers:
What is the first thing I should do when I arrive back in the Philippines?
Take some time to rest and relax. Reconnecting with family can wait a day or two. You’ve likely been through a long journey. Once you’re rested, make a list of the most important things you need to do, such as settling your finances, visiting family, and exploring job opportunities.
How can I avoid spending all my savings too quickly?
Create a budget and stick to it! Track your expenses, prioritize needs over wants, and avoid impulse purchases. Don’t give in to the pressure to spend lavishly. If you have a solid budget, it should be easy to track your in and out payments.
What if my family expects me to support them financially?
Have an open and honest conversation with your family about your financial situation. Set realistic expectations and boundaries. Help them understand that you need to save for your own future as well. Be tactful but firm with your limitations.
Where can I go for help with finding a job?
Contact the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) or the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) for assistance with job placement and training programs. You can also check online job portals and attend job fairs and employment bridging programs.
How can I deal with feeling homesick for my life abroad?
Acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to grieve the loss of your old life. Focus on the positives of being home, such as spending time with family and reconnecting with your culture. Stay busy and engaged in activities that you enjoy. Remind yourself of the reasons why you wanted to come home in the first place. It might also help to connect with other OFWs who have returned to the Philippines.
What if I feel like I don’t fit in anymore?
Give yourself time to adjust. Things have changed both at home and within yourself. Engage in social activities, reconnect with old friends, and find new hobbies. Remember that it takes time to feel like you belong. Look for ways to contribute to your community and make a positive impact.
References
These resources were consulted in the creation of this guide:
- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) – Financial Literacy
- Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – National Reintegration Program (NRP)
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
- “Psychological well-being of Filipino migrant workers: A systematic review and meta-analysis” – International Journal of Social Psychiatry
- Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
This guide is designed to navigate challenges based on the current landscape for OFWs.
Call to Action:
Ready to make your homecoming a success story? Don’t let the challenges overwhelm you. Use this guide as your roadmap, embrace the opportunities, and build the life you’ve always dreamed of back in the Philippines. Start by taking one small step today—create a budget, reconnect with a loved one, or explore a job opportunity. You’ve got this, Kabayan. Welcome home!
