Navigating Reverse Culture Shock: Tips for Returning Home from Abroad
Going abroad is an exciting adventure. You experience new cultures, meet new people, and learn new things. That is why moving to a foreign country is a life-changing experience. However, returning home after an extended period abroad can cause reverse culture shock, which is a psychological and cultural phenomenon that affects people differently.
Reverse culture shock is a common phenomenon for people who have been living in another country for an extended period. These individuals may struggle to readjust to their home culture. Just like in the initial culture shock, the experience can be challenging, confusing, and overwhelming. However, there are things you can do to cope with reverse culture shock easily.
1. Expect and Accept that You Will Experience Culture Shock
Being aware that you may experience reverse culture shock is the first step to adjusting after returning home. Acknowledging that you may feel out of place and disconnected after your overseas trip can help increase your resilience and flexibility. Therefore, prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and socially for the changes in your routines, language, and culture shock.
2. Keep in Touch with Your Expat Community
Staying in contact with your expat circle can make the reverse culture shock feel less isolating. Ensure that you stay connected with the people and places that were part of your life abroad. You can use social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, or Skype to keep in touch with those you met during your travels.
3. Keep Your Mind Open
Having an open mind is the key to overcoming reverse culture shock. Embrace all the things that seem strange and unfamiliar at first. Going with the flow and staying positive can help ease the transition.
4. Sharing Your Experience
Sharing your experience with others who have been through the same thing can be beneficial. They can provide you with tips and strategies that helped them overcome reverse culture shock when they returned home from abroad.
5. Plan Your Next Adventure
Reverse culture shock can get overwhelming and make it seem as if the world is closing in on you. To counter this feeling, plan your next adventure. You do not need to jump on a plane right away, you can explore your own country, for instance, by visiting friends or finding new places to explore.
The Bottom Line
Reverse culture shock is a natural reaction to coming back to your home country after an extended period abroad. It can be overwhelming, but it does not need to hold you back from adapting to your new surroundings. By applying some of the tips we have discussed in this article, you can overcome the transition period with ease.
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