Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of WERC.
For Indians who moved overseas during the 1990s, 2000s, and up to 2017, the pull of a familiar yet transformed homeland has come up in recent times. Technological advancements, seamless payment options, increased air travel, and rapid grocery deliveries make urban India an attractive destination for returning expats. They envision reliving old days with family and savoring familiar comforts like street food and cheap rickshaw travels with wind in their hair. It can paint a rosy picture of returning. However, the emotional reality is complex, resembling a roller coaster ride of emotions and unexpected challenges often called “reverse culture shock.”
New Ways of Working
Expats returning from countries with higher salaries might experience a significant decrease in their earning potential. The job market in India may have evolved, requiring them to upskill or rebuild their professional networks. It’s not familiar anymore. After years of working abroad, going back to square one of passing interviews with people who speak a different corporate language and asking questions that may be banned abroad like “Are you married?” may lead to feelings of anger or inadequacy. An adjustment to a new style of working can leave them confused. They have to learn new ways to adapt. For example, some may realize that the best way to move work forward with an external vendor is not by email but by picking up the phone to call, which could have been intrusive in their expat country.
The Shock of the Familiar
Stepping off the plane onto familiar soil can be exciting. India has changed so much that this initial euphoria can quickly fade as they hit a reality that doesn’t quite match their memories. Streets once known intimately may seem unfamiliar, and new ways of payment, new restaurants, and new societal interactions can be unsettling shocks. The once comforting routine of taking a train to college now feels scary and suffocating. This disorientation can lead to a sense of isolation and a struggle to answer the question, “Did I make a mistake by returning?”
Stuck Between Two Worlds
Repatriates often find themselves suspended between two worlds, feeling like cultural chameleons who can’t fully blend into either environment. They may struggle to relate to old friends who have moved on and haven’t shared their experiences abroad, while simultaneously missing the social norms they learned in their adopted home. Like door opening, it’s not a common practice in India to keep the door open for someone behind you (as it is in America), which can come across as rude to an expat but is totally normal in India. This feeling of being “in-between” can trigger a sense of being misunderstood and a yearning for a place where they truly feel understood and accepted.
Family Is an Anchor
Despite the challenges, the pull of family remains a powerful motivator for many expats. The desire to be closer to loved ones, especially aging parents, often outweighs the difficulties of repatriation. Interestingly, research suggests that returning home can positively impact mental health in the long term. The familiarity of language, festivals, and established support systems can provide a sense of grounding and belonging, which can alleviate feelings of isolation and contribute to overall well-being.
Managing Expectations
Repatriation is not a linear process; it's an emotional roller coaster with peaks and valleys. Recognizing and acknowledging the challenges is the first step toward successfully navigating the transition.
It’s crucial to manage expectations when returning home. Your life abroad has undoubtedly shaped you, and it’s unrealistic to expect to seamlessly pick up where you left off. You might not find the same brands or foods you enjoyed abroad, and making new friends in a different life stage can be challenging. For example, in India, a salad often consists of round-cut cucumber and tomatoes. Leafy veggies like Kale are not preferred, as the climate doesn’t suit you taking in uncooked veggies. Returning expats need to embrace the opportunity to create a new chapter rather than trying to recreate the past.
When Is the Right Time to Move?
The decision to repatriate should be carefully considered. Are you truly ready to embrace the change, or do you need more time to process your experiences abroad? Sometimes, waiting until you feel fully prepared can lead to a smoother transition. Other times, the best way to learn to swim is to jump into the water and figure it out along the way. Trust your instincts and choose the timing that feels right for you.
Support from Relocation Companies
Relocation companies can play a vital role in supporting repatriates through this emotional journey. By offering cultural reintegration programs, job search assistance, and ongoing support services, they can equip individuals and families with the tools and resources they need to navigate the complexities of returning home and build a fulfilling life in their native country.
Repatriation is a journey of the heart and resetting of the mind as much as it is a physical relocation. By acknowledging and accepting the emotional challenges behind it like feeling fearful, individuals can “hang in there” and navigate the transition to rediscover the joy of being home. As the global workforce continues to expand and evolve, understanding and supporting the emotional needs of repatriates is more important than ever for companies and managers.