ExpatRepat Services
by Robert E. "", President
ExpatRepat Services
No two persons respond precisely to the same experience in an identical manner. Thus, the path you follow through the process that leads you through possible reverse culture shock and to satisfying cultural readjustment to your culture of origin will have unique aspects. Mark well it may differ somewhat from other members of your family who also may be going through cultural readjustment. Yet, from the experiences of others who have gone before you, we offer a variety of steps many have found useful in cultural readjustment. They include:
Things of Which to Be Aware:
Realize it is normal for an expatriate assignment to impact all types of relationships. Expect there will be time and attention given to renewing or rebuilding those relationships.
Just as cultural adjustment in the host country did not occur the day you arrive there, neither will cultural readjustment to home occur immediately.
Things Others Have Found Helpful
Be fair with yourself. Expect repatriation to be as challenging for you as adjustment to the host culture.
List your accomplishments, or skills acquired while an expatriate. Celebrate those accomplishments. Remember them often. Recall they occurred over time, through a process of learning.
Realize all repatriates tend to be challenged also. If you can, compare notes with other repatriates you know.
Assume you are in a new host culture, use the skills here used there: do refrain from criticism, accept what you find without giving approval or disapproval.
Identify one or more "safe places" where you can retreat when under stress. It may have a beautiful view, quietness, or wonderful memories. Engage at least one other person where your thoughts can be examined non-judgmentally.
Do credit yourself with being bicultural. You have adjusted well to the culture of a host country and served there effectively. In time, you will complete your cultural readjustment to your native land. Many you know will never share that experience. Permit your experiences to elevate your view of a global market and a global village in which increasingly our world will live as transportation options and communication media continue to improve.
Congratulations!
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