The idea of working somewhere new is always daunting yet exciting. It has been been 15 years since I left “My Home” the Philippines and I would like to share with you the rollercoasters of emotions that every overseas worker goes through. I will be sharing what it is really like moving to a new country all by myself.
One of the hurdles of working away from home is having a little amount of money to start with. When I first came to Brunei every step was a challenge from the journey to settling down. For such a near country, it took me 29 hours to get here. First, I was caught in a storm whilst travelling through the sea thus making it longer for me to arrive to my destination. Arrived in Sandakan, I travelled again by bus to Kota Kinabalu, another 6 hours journey. The language barrier wasn’t helping at all, people barely speak in English, so communication is a no go. And from Kota Kinabalu, I travelled to Labuan for another 3 hours, then from Labuan to Brunei another 1 hour. Physically exhausted, but I had to admit, I’m excited as well to start a new journey.
Another hurdle is not knowing anyone. After couple of years, I can say this place provided me lifelong friendships. The very key was networking. You have to make yourself available to people. Constantly approachable and friendly, joining a social group, constantly reaching out.
It is uncomfortable moving to a foreign country. Things aren’t as they were at home-and those things you seek comfort doesn’t exist at your new home. You are not surrounded by familiar people you grew with. You are literally alone and learn to seek comfort in the strangest things you could find. You don’t have easy access to the comfort food you have at home, don’t hear the familiar sounds that soothes you. But one thing you should realize, at some point you have to stop comparing and get yourself adjusted to the new country you will soon call your new home. You have adapted to the shopping hours, the local taste of food, and the culture. AT some point you have to enjoy the place as well. The beautiful sights it offers, you just want to do the outdoor activities it offers specially to hiking to the hills and jungles. Cruising on a boat in its serene river is also a must try. You moved for the experience, opening yourself to the opportunities and changes you will encounter and you will soon get used to it, learn new comforts that one day you won’t be able to live without.
It’s hard working abroad it really is, until you finally get used to it. Your experience made you richer, you survived living in a new country, your friendship has expanded tremendously and you suddenly realized how big the world is. I am what I am today because of the experiences I have in my second home. Challenge yourself, work in another country, expect to feel uncomfortable and then allow yourself to grow.
