Transitions Abroad has just published an article I wrote about how to readjust to life at home after living abroad.
In order to conquer what I’ve termed the “at-home blues” — feelings of restlessness encountered during extended time at home between trips — I suggest five tactics:
1. Start planning your next trip.
2. Surround yourself with international influences.
3. Seek out adventures close to home.
4. Draw on the skills that helped you adjust when you were abroad.
5. Be positive and don’t romanticize.
I was happy that long-term world travel guru Rolf Potts supplied a quote for the article.
The piece, which is posted in the Independent Travel section of the Transitions Abroad site, is my third contribution to the magazine. Earlier in the year I wrote about Teaching English in Ecuador and Taiwan. If you’re unfamiliar with Transitions Abroad, poke around their Web site or, better yet, consider subscribing to the print edition.
4 replies on “My New Article on Beating the “At-Home Blues””
Ha, great stuff, Mech. Tactic zero is certainly effective (I imagine) in preventing the at-home blues. It certainly has seemed to work for you, my far-flung hermano! Good advice re: helping out fellow vagabonders who’re now at home.
Sweet article Newls, but I’d like to add
Tactic ZERO: DON’T GO HOME!
Seriously, though, try to help people out who are struggling with tactic 6. You can do it even if you haven’t had a similar experience yourself. For example, “take me through a typical day in your life there.” Or “What were the top three things that struck you as being different?” or “What would be something from there that would be nice to have here?” or whatever. Unintentionally snubbing your friends’ life-changing experiences by not asking questions sucks, even if it’s unintentional. Actually I think sometimes it has to do with being a little intimidated about the whole thing too.
Thanks, Mike. I agree 100%. Tactic #6 is, indeed, a good one. I’ve certainly found that to be true in my experience.
NRP: Well said. Sentiments applicable to a return from studying abroad as well. I concur with tactics 1-5, and were I to add a sixth, it would surely be: Don’t expect empathy or even interest.
Upon returning home, many travelers will be greeted by an astounding (and suprising) lack of interest in their experiences, and few will empathize with the blues — be them “at home” or otherwise. Sadly this is true of even the closest of friends and family. I don’t believe it’s intentional; rather, the nature of something highly experiential, like international travel. People just can’t relate to what you experienced, how it has changed you, and what you are now feeling. Some will try but will lack the requisite perspective. Others won’t even try. There’s a big difference between drinking Ecuadorian Zhumir or Galician Aguadente and American Kool Aid. A world of difference.