Filipinos? Again? Yes. Pinoys easily are among the top ex-pat communities working overseas. With how this sector is greatly segmented, it would be nice to look at how they cope up with the ever-challenging life abroad.
Working in Dubai for over five years, I’ve had my fair share of both good and not-so-good experiences. I could have let those bog me down, but I’ve learned to look at them through a positive lens. Moreover, I’ve even compiled a list of reminders that helped me stay positive throughout the years. Here are my top 15, and I hope they will serve as a source of encouragement for you as well.
1. You didn’t get to where you are now by accident. You are actually a step closer to making your dreams a reality.
2. Your loved ones are proud of you for having the courage to move away from the comforts of home in search of a better life and future. Moreover, you are doing all this for them.
3. The people you left back home are thinking of you as much as you’re thinking of them, therefore, you are never alone. They are your prayer warriors. Take heart.
4. You deserve every single penny that you earn every month. It may be just enough for now, however, take heart, God will bless you even more if you are faithful. His eyes are not blind to not see how you work so hard.
5. People surely will respect and appreciate you for getting out of your comfort zone and for taking the challenge to be one of the many Filipinos working abroad. Feel good about it.
6. Please take good care of your health and body. Nobody’s around you all the time to look after you. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
7. If you’re ever on the verge of giving up, remember your biggest WHY. The reasons that made you decide to come here.
8. A long-distance relationship can be challenging, but consistent communication helps. You may not be seeing your loved ones for long periods of time, but they’re always just a call or message away.
9. Homesickness might hit you at times, but praying and asking for God’s comfort will surely help you cope. After all, God’s got your back.
10. Never doubt yourself because you’re way more competitive than you were before. You’re doing well in dealing with multi-cultural people and in handling pressure in a diverse environment. Your work experience abroad is the greatest tool in your career path.
11. You are privileged to be working abroad and earning double or triple the salary that you used to earn back home.
12. Know that while you’re away from home, you are helping the Philippine economy primarily through your remittances.
13. Aside from your own culture, you are also learning about other nation’s cultures and traditions not just from your host country but also from your multicultural friends who showed you their customs and practices.
14. Just when you thought that you couldn’t survive to be away from your loved ones you’ll see that you have successfully become independent, and in the process became more mature.
15. The best outlet you could ever have is your Spiritual Family. They will never get tired of praying for you, comforting you, guiding you and simply being there for you. Cherish them.
Friend, I don’t know what you’re going through right now, however, please bear in mind that with God nothing is impossible. Regardless of your current situation, prayer is always your most powerful weapon. You’ll find comfort and peace in allowing God’s presence in spite of everything. Let Him take over.
Life is seasonal. We all have our fair share of hilarious experiences and awesome moments in life too, so cheer up. I sincerely hope that through this, I have somehow uplifted your spirit. If you have similar reminders to share, please feel let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear your stories too!
