The Unexpected Challenge of Returning Home After Living Abroad

You'd think the biggest cultural adjustment when taking an overseas assignment would be adapting to the foreign culture.

But often, the greater challenge arises when you move back to your home country after being abroad. Instead of seamlessly slipping back into your old life, you may find yourself a proverbial "square peg in a round hole."

Your family, friends and colleagues may not appreciate this new version of you that seems at odds with your native habits and communication styles.

This reverse culture shock can be profoundly discouraging.??

You may be stunned to feel like a foreigner in your own culture.

But with the right mindset, this can be a productive growing pain rather than a permanent condition.??????

A few quick tips for overcoming the challenges of "reverse" culture shock:

• Anticipate the challenges of repatriation just as you did for your overseas assignment
• Consider coming home as another case of cultural adaptation, deciding how to honor and make sense of the "new you," and being patient as you adapt again.
• Let go of the temptation to angrily dismiss either culture, and find meaningful ways to stay connected to your expat experiences.
• Give yourself time, stay proactive, and approach repatriation with the same thoughtfulness you employed abroad.

Reintegrating into your home country after an extended stint overseas presents difficulties, no doubt.

But keeping these tips in mind will allow you to harness the immense value of your time abroad for continued self-development and professional success.