The Untold Realities of Being a Digital Nomad or Expat: The Urge to Return Home

Jan 22, 2024 | Digital Nomad | 0 comments

As the trend of becoming a digital nomad or expat continues to grow, more and more people are ditching traditional office jobs and setting off to explore the world while working remotely. The idea of living and working in a new country may seem like a dream come true, but there are definitely some aspects of this lifestyle that are not often talked about. One of those aspects is the feeling of wanting to go home.

While the digital nomad and expat lifestyle can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be isolating and challenging at times. Here are a few things they don’t tell you about being a digital nomad or expat, and the feeling of wanting to go home.

Loneliness

One of the biggest challenges of living and working in a new country is the feeling of loneliness. It can be difficult to leave behind your friends and family, and it can take time to build new connections and support systems in a new place. Even with the presence of technology, feeling lonely is a common struggle for many digital nomads and expats.

Culture shock

Living in a new country can be an exciting and eye-opening experience, but it can also be overwhelming. Adjusting to a new culture, language, and way of life can be a shock to the system, and it can take time to feel comfortable in your new surroundings. The initial excitement of being in a new place can quickly wear off, and reality can set in, leading to the desire to go back to the familiarity of home.

Unforeseen challenges

No matter how much research and preparation you do before making the move to a new country, there will always be unforeseen challenges that arise. From navigating bureaucracy and paperwork to dealing with unexpected cultural differences, being a digital nomad or expat comes with its fair share of hurdles. These challenges can often lead to feelings of frustration and homesickness.

Missing the little things

While it’s easy to romanticize the idea of living in a new country, you will inevitably start to miss the little things from home. Whether it’s your favorite comfort foods, familiar routines, or the ease of communication in your native language, the small comforts of home can become more and more appealing as time goes on.

Ultimately, the feeling of wanting to go home is a natural part of the digital nomad and expat experience. It’s important to recognize that it’s okay to feel this way and to seek support from others who understand what you’re going through. Finding a community of like-minded individuals, staying connected with loved ones back home, and taking time to practice self-care are all important ways to cope with homesickness and the challenges of living abroad.

In conclusion, being a digital nomad or expat is not always as glamorous as it may seem on social media. It comes with its own set of challenges and moments of doubt. However, for many, the rewards of living and working in a new country far outweigh the difficulties, and the feeling of wanting to go home is just a small part of the overall adventure. So, if you’re considering taking the leap into the digital nomad or expat lifestyle, go for it with your eyes wide open, knowing that the desire to go home is a normal part of the journey.