Feeling homesick and distracted at work in a foreign country?

Yes! Try and educate yourself as much as possible about the new culture to help with culture shock. You may well experience it, but forewarned is forearmed. Also investigate the different stages of culture shock to prepare yourself mentally.

Acknowledge Feelings: Recognize and accept that feeling homesick is a natural response to being in a new environment. Allowing yourself to feel these emotions without judgment can be the first step towards managing them. Reflect on what specific aspects of home you miss the most. This awareness can help you find ways to recreate or find substitutes in your new location.

Create Routines: Establish a daily routine that incorporates elements from your life back home, such as morning rituals, favorite meals, or regular exercise, which can provide comfort and stability. Consistent routines can help create a sense of normalcy and control amidst the new and unfamiliar.

I agree. I joined a Tai Chi club and that helped me integrate into the local community. Plus, it opened my mind to a new hobby.

Connect Locally: Engage with the local community through events, clubs, or social gatherings. Making local friends and acquaintances can help reduce feelings of isolation and homesickness. Explore local hobbies or classes that interest you. This can not only help you meet people but also help you feel more rooted in your new surroundings.

Stay in Touch: Regularly communicate with family and friends back home through calls, texts, or video chats. Keeping in touch can provide emotional support and lessen feelings of disconnection. Set up regular virtual meetups or game nights with friends or family. These activities can help maintain strong bonds despite the distance.

Technology is an amazing tool for staying in touch with loved ones "back home." However, you might benefit from incorporating some snail mail into the mix. Force yourself to go visit the most tourist filled areas of your town. Grab some postcards while you are there. Then, when you go home write about how amazing it will be if those people come visit you. Some people won't decide to come until they are explicitly asked, so ask. When they begin booking their trip there will be lots of opportunities to chat and connect while falling deeper in love with your current location.

Absolutely! Learning the language(s) is absolutely key. Even a little bit of effort can go a long way, and once uou realise you can communicate, you'll want to do it more.

Embrace Culture: Actively learn about and participate in the local culture. Attend cultural events, try local cuisine, and visit significant landmarks to develop a deeper appreciation for your new home. Understanding and embracing local customs and traditions can help you feel more connected and less like an outsider.

Seek Support: If homesickness persists and significantly affects your work or mental health, consider seeking support from a professional counselor or therapist who can provide strategies to cope with adjustment challenges. Many workplaces offer support for expatriates, including access to counseling services or expat groups, which can provide guidance and a sense of community.