It all starts with huge excitement, a certain amount of trepidation, and a holiday feeling, as you discover temping new shops and cool restaurants. Yes, you moved to another country, and it’s a big deal, but you don’t realise it right from the start. Sooner or later you accept that this is now your everyday life. That’s when it settles in, homesickness. You could hold on to your memories of home and crave the familiarity of your old life, but you would be missing so much. You would practically live half a life.
Researchers say that at least 70% of young adults and children experience it at some time. But as the population becomes more mobile and people are moving abroad for work or simply retiring, the feeling is being shared by much older people.
Homesickness doesn’t care what year this is, or your age, what nationality you are, whether you’re a man or a woman, whether you came over for our dream job or to escape the place where you’re from. And, like every sickness, it has symptoms: guilt, sadness, fear. All these things make it universal.
Homesick? Don’t be.
You’re exactly where you are supposed to be: enjoying your new life and connected with your loved ones back home. September 27th is International Homesickness Day, not a sad day, on the contrary, a cheerful one, dedicated to brave people all over the world pursuing their dreams. Aaand, there are always tricks to deal with that sadness wanting to get to you.
- Make friends. They get you through the rough times in no time :). Don’t let boundaries like language or culture get in the way, people establish connections in the most unexpected ways and situations. Get ready do be surprised!
- Accept every invitation, whether it is post-work drinks, coffee after the school drop-off, play dates for the children, your street Christmas party, even afternoon tea with the aged neighbour.
- Exercise. Keeping your body healthy will keep your mind healthy. Endorphins will do their thing, and make you feel gooood.
- Keep your habits and routines. With all these changes happening, you will surely need some things to always remain the same. For example, practice your hobbies, cook your favourite dishes, stay updated with your favourite sports results.
- Establish a new relationship with your old home. Send gifts from your new country. Your folks are probably curios about your new life there, so be sure you get them acquainted with the new culture.
Talk longer with our Voice Credit prizes
International Homesickness Day has been our inspiration for a contest on Facebook. Try a fun way to get free credit and stay connected to your loved ones.
So, what do you miss the most about your home country?
Add your comment to our Facebook post by September 26 and win one of the 3 Voice Credit prizes. The winner will be randomly selected & announced on Friday, September 27.
Good luck everyone!
