Many people consider working abroad as an opportunity to make those dreams come true. While working abroad opens doors to great possibilities to make a living, it also presents unfamiliar survival challenges.
A lot of things should be evaluated before making that decision to leave the comforts of home in pursuit of greener pastures. It takes courage to take that big leap of faith, and a lot of grit and purpose to stay in the game.
Here are some points to ponder that could easily go to one’s emotional checklist:
Distance and Separation Anxiety
This is the hardest part, especially if you have kids. Once you sign that contract, it’s almost non-negotiable. Homesickness strikes. This is where all those emotions got unpacked.
If you really have to go abroad, go, but decide that it is just temporary. Put a time frame and commit to living together again at the soonest possible time. It is always best to stick to God’s design for the family.
Longing for Home
It’s miles away. You cannot just leave your work anytime you want to fly back home. You have to understand that you are bounded by contract and failure to fulfill your contractual obligations would merit some penalties. In some cases, it results in getting banned from working in the country again.
A few companies are lenient to allow employees to take short leave during the probationary period but it may have to be at your own expense. Otherwise, you have to be patient and wait to complete one full year to use your annual leave.
Independence
You will be on your own, and you will have to learn to live on your own if you want to stay for the long run. Just strengthen up and you’ll be fine.
Culture Shock
Different land, different people, different culture, a different way of doing things. Surprise! You’re not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy! For a change, you are a foreigner.
Learning to adjust to different kinds of people is something you’ll have to deal with every day. Your first year is going to be a huge adjustment period, but it’s also the time when you’ll grow and learn the most.
Language Barrier and Multi-Culturalism
You’ll be rubbing elbows with different nationalities from all around the globe, living and working in one place. In the UAE, over 200 nationalities call the country their home.
Just be friendly – it’s the easiest way to break the walls. And do not be conscious if others are not as fluent as you with English – it’s the context clues that matters here.
Discrimination
It happens. Everywhere. Anywhere. Some passports will always be more powerful than others.
Sometimes, your nationality has to do with how much you get paid for. Don’t let it get to you though. Consistently do your job well. Focus on what you can control. You will eventually get there.
Be a self-advocate in presenting your nationality in a positive narrative, despite what they probably have heard from others or from the media.
Patience
Trust me, you’ll be down on your knees before you know it and asking God to give you an infinite amount of patience. You’re going to learn how to wait and how to be really patient with people around you.
Stick to the positives – there’s always a reward in waiting.
Long-Distance Relationship
Relationships can be a source of inspiration and joy, but for an expat, long-distance relationships can also be the biggest emotional distraction. Being apart for so long can put a strain on any relationship. You and your partner need to discuss and plan accordingly. If you have the right priorities, it will help both of you to survive. Consistent communication is key. BUT decide to bring your partner with you – whatever it takes.
Laws of the Host Country
Ignorantia legis neminem excusat. (Ignorance of the law excuses no one) It’s best to know the laws of the land where you intend to work. You went abroad to push the bar not to end up behind bars.
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I’m sure there are more into this. But, disclaimer, the above are all based on my personal experiences working in Dubai for almost five years now.
I hope this brief list helps you in making a more informed decision. Working abroad can be very rewarding, but it’s always best to know beforehand what awaits you before you make that move. The grass after all always looks greener on the other side until you actually get there.
I wish you all the best, and may wisdom guide you wherever your dreams take you.
