Being homesick is one of the worst feelings ever. Living abroad is exciting, but it also comes with its own challenges, one of which is maintaining meaningful connections with friends and family back home. It’s a lot to think about and takes a conscious effort on both ends.
The most important thing to do is think about what needs you have that are not being met. Examples of needs could be speaking your native language, eating the food you are used to, or staying connected with your family. You can then identify the best way to meet this need and stay connected with your loved ones. From taking advantage of technology to simple gestures, there are various ways to bridge the gap and stay connected with home.
Take Advantage of Technology
Technology is one of the best tools you can use, particularly social media and video calls. Social media is a great way to stay connected with those back home. For example, you can use the Stories function on WhatsApp, Instagram, or Snapchat to easily share moments from your life and see updates from your loved ones. This can help you and your loved ones feel like part of each other’s lives. You can also use social media and the internet to stay informed whether it’s news, entertainment, or pop culture.
Video calls are another great way to stay connected. Schedule time to regularly catch up and participate in virtual activities like movies, games, or simply have a chat. Planning creatively can help you feel better by releasing endorphins. Take some time to research fun activities you can do with your family and friends virtually. Video calls can also be used to ‘attend’ important occasions such as birthdays and wedding celebrations.
Simple Gestures
Setting a specific time to do something together can be difficult due to varying time zones and busy schedules. However, it is important to prioritize communication with family and friends and to make sure that you are still taking the time to regularly catch up. Despite the hectic nature of life, it is essential to set aside time to talk and spend time with the people you care about. Doing so will help to strengthen your relationships and ensure that you stay connected.
Be with them during important occasions — even if you aren't physically visiting family or friends. Send a meaningful and thoughtful gift for their birthday or wedding, such as a personalized card or a package of their favorite treats. You can also record a special video message in order to let your loved one know you are thinking of them, even when you are far away. A simple gesture of thoughtfulness can go a long way in showing your loved ones how much you care.
Connecting With Your Home Country
Immerse yourself in your home culture as much as you can. This could include joining or forming online groups if there are no physical ones in your city. For example, Black expats from many countries have groups on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and Clubhouse. Joining or forming a group for other Black expats in your area can be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals. You can find out about local restaurants, events, and activities, exchange advice and tips, and even plan social gatherings. This can help you to feel more connected and less isolated, while also providing an opportunity to learn more about the culture and customs of the area you are living in. It can also be a great way to make new friends, so don’t hesitate to join or form a group today.
Listening to podcasts from your home country can also help you feel more connected to it. It can give you a sense of belonging, as you are able to hear people speaking the same language or dialect and discussing topics that are familiar to you. It can also provide you with a better understanding of the culture and the people of your home country, as well as the news and events that are happening there. Additionally, hearing people discuss the issues that are important to your home country can help you to better appreciate and understand the perspectives of those living in it. It can make you feel more connected to the things that make your home country unique, as you gain a better appreciation for the values and customs that are particular to your home country.
Additionally, sharing your experience online can be an effective way to build an engaged community. Not only does it give you the chance to connect with like-minded people, but it can also help you learn from their experiences, share your struggles, gain valuable insights, and foster meaningful relationships. If your content is of interest to others, it may even lead to increased visibility and increased opportunities for growth. Moreover, by sharing your knowledge and expertise, you can also help others in your community to learn, grow, and develop.
There are many ways to battle the homesickness that comes with living abroad. Challenge yourself to do things that help you stay connected to your home, whether it be physically, creatively, technologically or emotionally. Make an effort to remind yourself of the familiar and comforting aspects of home, such as familiar smells, sounds, and activities. Look for ways to incorporate these elements into your daily life, even if you are far away from home. Connecting to home can help you feel grounded and secure, especially during times of upheaval and uncertainty. In all this, remember to take some time for yourself and live life fully present wherever you may be.
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