Living and working in a foreign country is a transformative experience that shapes both personal and professional growth. As Ernest Hemingway famously said, “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young [person], then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” But what Hemingway didn’t mention is the challenge of transitioning back home. My research shows that many people experience more culture shock when repatriating than they did when they first moved abroad.
At first, this might seem surprising. Adjusting to a new country is an expected challenge—but why is going home so difficult? The problem is often a lack of preparation. When you move to a foreign country, you anticipate change. But when returning home, it’s easy to assume everything will be the same. In reality, life has moved on—your friends, your work environment, and even your own expectations may have shifted.
On top of that, those around you rarely expect you to struggle. This lack of awareness means that organizations often fail to support repatriation properly, and even close friends and family may not fully understand the changes you’ve gone through. You might also find that people aren’t as interested in hearing about your experiences as you had hoped—not out of indifference, but simply because they can’t relate.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Reentry
So how can you make sure your international experience remains a lasting benefit rather than a source of frustration? Here are key actions to take before and after returning home:
1. Plan Your Reentry at Least Six Months in Advance:
- Just as you planned your move abroad, create a roadmap for your return.
- Research job opportunities, living arrangements, and social activities that align with your new skills and perspectives.
- Identify areas where you’ve grown and think about how to integrate these strengths into your life back home – or wherever your career takes you next.
2. Find Mentors at Home While You’re Still Abroad
- Connect with colleagues, friends, or professional contacts who can keep you updated on developments at home.
- A mentor at work can advocate for your career progression, while personal mentors can help with logistics and social reintegration.
- Regular check-ins can ease the transition and prevent you from feeling disconnected upon return.
3. Identify Stability in a Changing Environment
- Not everything will have changed—find familiar people, places, or routines that provide comfort.
- Reconnecting with old hobbies or community activities can give you a sense of belonging while you adjust.
4. Expand Your Social Circle with Like-Minded People
- Seek out individuals who have also lived abroad and understand the challenges of repatriation.
- Join international alumni groups, expat returnee networks, or professional associations that align with your new experiences.
- Balancing old friendships with new connections will help you integrate without feeling isolated.
5. Take Charge of Your Career and Personal Growth
- Reflect on how your international experience has changed your professional goals and skill set.
- If your current job doesn’t align with your new aspirations, consider negotiating a new role or exploring other opportunities.
- Use your global experience as an advantage—highlight your adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving skills in professional settings.
Returning home doesn’t mean leaving behind the growth and insights you’ve gained abroad. With intentional preparation and a proactive mindset, you can make your international experience a lifelong asset—one that truly moves with you wherever you go.