As I prepare to move back to my home country next month after spending eight transformative years abroad, I find myself reflecting on what it takes to relocate.
When I first moved abroad, the excitement of new opportunities was immense. I landed in Thailand, enrolled in a course, and a secured job opportunity with three suitcases and a three-month budget.
Here’s what I’ve learned from my experiences and some advice for those of you facing similar transitions:
- Finding a Reputable Agency: I didn’t do a lot of planning and research myself. Instead, I found an agency that offered the opportunity to live and work abroad. Their assistance with documents and visa requirements smoothed the process.
- Financial Planning: Plan your finances based on a monthly budget estimate. Ensure you have enough funds to sustain yourself for 2 to 3 months. Familiarize yourself with the renting requirements; for instance, here in Thailand, we typically pay a deposit equivalent to two months' rent plus one month's rent upfront. Additionally, research available public transportation options and estimate associated costs.
- Cultural Adaptation: Embrace the local culture to avoid culture shock and settle in smoothly. Immersing myself in Thai customs and traditions provided a sense of belonging from the outset. Remember, each country operates differently, so it's essential to respect their rules and regulations and adapt accordingly rather than expecting them to conform to your own cultural beliefs.
- Social Integration: Social integration proved to be the most challenging aspect, especially since I lean more towards introversion. The thought of attending networking events or meetups alone was quite daunting. Building a support network in a transient environment is tough, and while the constant flux of people coming and going made friendships bittersweet, it's indeed possible to form lifelong bonds. Regular communication with friends and family back home became a lifeline, anchoring me amidst the uncertainties of expatriate life.
As I prepare to bid farewell to this chapter and return home after eight years abroad, I carry with me a wealth of experiences and lessons learned. These experiences have shaped me into the resilient individual I am today, and they will undoubtedly guide me as I navigate the next phase of my journey back home.
Transitioning back home after eight years abroad presents a unique set of challenges and excitement. Here's how I'm preparing for this next chapter:
- Reintegration and Reverse Culture Shock: I'm mentally preparing for changes at home and expecting some reverse culture shock. Staying open-minded and flexible will be crucial as I navigate these adjustments.
- Legal and Documentation: Ensuring my driver's license is up to date is a priority. I will also take the time to understand the tax implications of living abroad to avoid any legal hurdles
- Housing and Settling In: As I prepare to move back home, I’m carefully considering whether to stay with family or rent a place. This decision depends largely on where I find a job, as I aim to live as close to my workplace as possible.
- Career Transition: I haven't actively started job searching yet, although I am receiving some potential opportunities. My main focus now is getting my CV ready to join a very competitive market. Leveraging my professional network and connections is invaluable as I navigate this transition.
- Social and Community Integration: I'm planning on re-establishing relationships through engaging in social activities to help me reintegrate into my community. I'm considering joining local clubs, organizations, or volunteer groups to contribute to and connect with my community on a deeper level.
- Financial Planning: One of the biggest challenges will undoubtedly be effective budgeting, as this career change will put me in a considerably lower financial position. However, I’m willing to live a bit uncomfortably for a while to reach my goal.
Whether you’re moving to a new country or preparing to return home, both journeys are filled with challenges and opportunities. With thoughtful planning and a positive attitude, you can navigate these transitions smoothly and create a fulfilling new chapter in your life. The key is to take it day by day and not focus too much on the end goal. Just navigate through the everyday challenges with patience.
