Isaias Lijauco
Homesickness is one of those things that make life hard for kababayans working abroad. Sure, technological advancements have helped provide new means to communicate with family at home, and there are spots even in foreign countries where OFWs can enjoy their food and culture in peace. But there’s still a feeling of loneliness that lingers despite it all. Luckily, there are ways to alleviate such symptoms. Read them below if you’re interested.
Be a Tourist
Since you’re already on foreign soil, you might as well make the most of it and explore the place. Yes, you’re there to work. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be a tourist first! Aside from helping you minimize homesickness, exploring the new country you’re in would allow you to meet new people and learn about their cultures.
Binge Watch Something
Movies and TV serieses are there to help you disconnect for a while. If you find yourself having trouble sleeping at night due to homesickness, you’d best turn on your television or laptop for the latest show or flicks. Filipino channels are readily available even in foreign countries, and you can always take your pick from the listings on Netflix.
Read Books
But if you’re the type of OFW who takes comfort in books instead of films and TV shows, pouring over your favorite novels to beat homesickness isn’t a bad idea, either! Aside from keeping you entertained, books have the uncanny ability to stimulate your mind in such a way that you go to sleep with thoughts other than your loved ones at home. Plus, it helps you gain knowledge that you might need to advance your career abroad.
Meet Other OFWs
You’re not the only Global Pinoy missing home, you know. With more Filipinos venturing out of the country nowadays, it’s only a matter of time before you meet a few OFWs who are just as homesick as you. So you might as well bear your feelings of longing together. Meet up with fellow OFWs in the country where you work, hear out their stories, and ask for tips on how they manage their homesickness.
Hang Tough
You’ve already come this far just to make a living for yourself and your family. Don’t return home just because you’re homesick. Believe it or not, things will get better no matter how hard your life abroad is at first. Set the right mindset and keep yourself motivated. By doing so, you’ll toughen yourself up and thrive even while in a strange country.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing homesickness doesn’t make OFWs like you weak,it only shows that you’re still unused to your new setting. Follow the tips mentioned above and you can be sure that you’ll acclimate to your new environment in no time.