Coming home after working abroad as an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) is a big deal. You’ve been away, working hard, and dreaming of this moment. But it’s not always smooth sailing. Reintegration can be a real emotional rollercoaster, full of ups and downs, and it’s important to understand what to expect and how to handle it. This article will walk you through the common challenges and give you some practical tips to make your return a little easier.
The Initial High: Welcome Home!
At first, being home feels amazing! You’re surrounded by your family, eating familiar food, and sleeping in your own bed. There’s a huge wave of happiness and relief. Everyone is excited to see you, and you’re the center of attention. This “honeymoon phase” can last for a few weeks, maybe even a couple of months. Enjoy it! Bask in the love and support. Spend quality time with your loved ones and catch up on everything you’ve missed.
The Crash: Reality Bites
But, like all honeymoons, this feeling fades. The reality of being back home starts to sink in, and that’s where things can get tricky. This is where the “emotional rollercoaster” really begins. You might start feeling restless, bored, or even a little lost. You are no longer the breadwinner abroad, and it’s normal to feel a little uneasy about this change.
Understanding the Expected: Emotional Challenges
One of the biggest challenges OFWs face upon returning home is managing expectations. Your family might have certain ideas about how you’ll spend your money or how you’ll contribute to the household. They might expect lavish gifts or financial support for every little thing. If you haven’t had open and honest conversations about finances before your return, this can lead to serious tension. Tip: Start having these conversations before you come home. Be clear about your financial situation and your plans for the future.
Another common issue is feeling like you’ve lost your independence. When you’re working abroad, you’re responsible for yourself. You make your own decisions and manage your own money. Coming back home can mean giving up some of that control, especially if you’re living with your family again. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re used to being self-sufficient.
Culture shock can unexpectedly hit OFWs returning to their own country. Even though you’re back in your homeland, things might feel different. The pace of life, the social norms, and even the way people communicate might seem strange after being away for so long. You have grown and changed, so adjustment to the old ways can take time.
Loneliness is another common emotion. You might miss your friends from abroad, your routine, and the sense of purpose you had in your job. Even surrounded by family, you can feel isolated if you’re struggling to readjust. Tip: Stay connected with your friends abroad through social media, video calls, or even by planning visits. Look for ways to rebuild your social life back home by joining clubs, taking classes, or volunteering.
Financial Reintegration: Making Your Money Work
Financial reintegration is crucial to create a fulfilling and stable life back home. The money you’ve saved is a precious resource, and it’s important to use it wisely. Many OFWs dream of starting their own business, but it’s risky.
Don’t rush into any major investments or business ventures. Take your time to research your options and get professional advice, when needed. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) offers resources and programs aimed at helping OFWs manage their finances effectively. You’ll find guides and tools to promote savings and financial planning that fits many different situations.
Consider investing in a business you’re passionate about and have some knowledge of. Starting a small business, such as a sari-sari store or online shop, can provide a steady income and a sense of purpose. Enrolling in training programs about entrepreneurship is vital, especially if you’ve never thought about running a business.
Finding Purpose: Work and Activities
Many OFWs struggle with finding a sense of purpose after returning home. You may have left a stable job abroad, and feel useless. Returning to the exact same job you had before might not be satisfying. Consider using your skills and experience to start a new career, volunteer, or pursue further education.
Look into job opportunities that make use of the skills you gained abroad. Your international experience can be a huge advantage in fields like customer service, hospitality, or even teaching. Networking is essential here! Connect with people in your chosen field and let them know you’re looking for work.
Volunteering, especially with organizations related to OFW support, is a good way to give back, meet people, and feel good about yourself. It gives you a purpose and keeps you active.
If you’re thinking of going back to school, explore vocational training programs or online courses that can enhance your skills and make you more employable. Remember, learning is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to acquire new knowledge.
Family Dynamics: Re-establishing Relationships
Rebuilding relationships with your family is a key part of a successful reintegration. Your family has changed while you were away, and you may have changed as well. Be patient, understanding, and willing to compromise.
Spend quality time with your children. They may not remember you as well as you’d like, or they may have developed their own routines and ways of doing things. Be present in their lives, attend school events, and engage in activities they enjoy. The UNICEF provides resources on supporting children of migrant workers.
Communication is key! Talk to your spouse or partner openly and honestly about your expectations, feelings, and fears. Marriage counseling and regular check-ins may be needed if there are adjustments needed. Regular check-ins allow you to share personal experiences and thoughts, which strengthens the bond between partners.
Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you’re struggling to adjust to family life. Family counseling is available in most areas of the Philippines, and having a mediator helps everyone stay calm.
Mental Health: Taking Care of Yourself
Taking care of your mental health is the key. The emotional rollercoaster of reintegration can take a toll, and stress and anxiety are normal. These can lead to more serious problems if not addressed.
Don’t be afraid to admit that you’re struggling. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide a safe space to process your emotions and develop coping strategies. The Department of Health (DOH) often has programs listed that can offer access to mental health services.
Make sure you’re eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. These simple lifestyle changes can have a major impact on your mood and well-being. Getting outside for fresh air and sunshine can also help boost your spirits.
Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga. These can help you to manage stress and anxiety. There are many free apps and online resources that can teach you these techniques.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
There are a few common mistakes that OFWs make when they come home. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid many problems.
Spending your savings too quickly is a big mistake. Resist the urge to buy flashy, expensive things to impress others. Focus on long-term financial security for you and your family. Always budget before spending and focus on necessities.
Trusting the wrong people with your money is another dangerous pitfall. Be wary of scams and investment schemes that sound too good to be true. Seek advice from trusted financial advisors and do your research before investing.
Isolating yourself from friends and family can make things worse. Make an effort to stay connected with your loved ones and seek support from your community. Social interaction is so important for your well-being!
Reliving the past won’t change anything. When working abroad, problems back home can be overlooked when there is money being provided. Instead of dwelling on past problems and past circumstances, focus on the present and on building a better future.
Celebrating Successes: The Rewards of Coming Home
While readjusting can be tough, it’s important to remember what you’ve accomplished. You’ve worked hard, saved money, and provided for your family. You have learned some valuable lessons through your resilience.
Take pride in your achievements and celebrate your successes, no matter how small. You deserve it! Maybe take a vacation, pursue a hobby, or simply relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Remember that you’re not alone. Millions of OFWs have gone through the same experience. Connect with other returning workers, share your stories, and learn from each other’s experiences.
Focus on creating a fulfilling and meaningful life back home. Find your purpose, build strong relationships, and make a positive impact on your community.
Staying Connected: Maintaining Ties with Your Working Community
Even after returning home, maintaining connections with your work community abroad is beneficial. These connections can provide emotional support, potential business opportunities, and a sense of continuity. Use social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp to stay in touch with former colleagues and friends. Sharing updates and participating in group discussions keeps the bond alive.
Participate in virtual reunions or online events. Many companies now host virtual events that allow former employees to reconnect. These events are a great way to reminisce about old times, hear about what’s new, and possibly explore new opportunities. Attend webinars or online workshops organized by overseas Filipino communities to enhance your skills and knowledge. These sessions can offer practical advice and relevant insights on various topics relevant to life back home and abroad.
Continue to seek mentorship (or become a mentor) through professional connections or with newly hired staff. Sharing wisdom and knowledge helps you remain connected and adds value to others. Consider collaborating on projects or initiatives with members of your former work community. These activities can provide a sense of purpose and help utilize your skills in a meaningful way. Staying connected supports emotional well-being and facilitates the transition back home.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Navigating the emotional and practical challenges of reintegration often requires professional guidance. Don’t hesitate to seek help from career counselors, financial advisors, or therapists who specialize in OFW reintegration. Career counselors can assist in identifying job opportunities, refining your resume, and practicing interview skills. Financial advisors can provide assistance with wealth management and investments.
Mental health professionals can address emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, or culture shock. Look for local organizations or government programs that offer counseling and advice specifically tailored to returning OFWs. Attending workshops and information sessions can provide valuable insights and practical tips for managing your finances, starting a business, or improving your mental health. These sessions often offer a supportive environment where you can connect with other returning OFWs and share experiences.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to adjust to being back home?
There’s no set timeline. It varies for everyone. Some people adjust quickly, while others need more time. Give yourself patience and be kind to yourself.
What if I miss working abroad?
It’s normal to miss your old life. Focus on the positives of being back home, but it’s okay to acknowledge your feelings. Explore ways to use your skills and experience in new and meaningful ways at home.
How do I deal with family members who constantly ask for money?
Set clear boundaries and stick to them. Explain your financial plan and let them know that you can’t always provide financial help. It’s okay to say no.
What if I run out of money?
Avoid using up your savings hastily. Create a realistic budget and try not to deviate from this spending limit. Look for income opportunities, whether it’s starting a small business or getting a job. Be proactive about saving and avoiding debt.
Where can I get help with starting a business?
Check resources for small-business start-ups provided by the government. Many Local Government Units (LGUs) have programs that offer assistance, such as business training and low interest loans. Look online for other organizations that offer programs and training.
References
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas.
Department of Health.
UNICEF.
Ready to come home and make the most of your return? Don’t let the emotional rollercoaster scare you. With the right preparation, a positive attitude, and a willingness to ask for help when you need it, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful life back in the Philippines. Take the first step today! Start planning your financial future, reconnect with your family, and explore new opportunities. Your homecoming chapter starts now!
