The Art of Coming Home” by Storti Graig (2001)
Expatriate literature and resources tend to focus on challenges that people face when they relocate to a new country. Most expect this transition to be challenging as one leaves his/her familiar surroundings, bids farewells, changes routines and learns to navigate in a different environment. Many also think that moving back to the home country will be easier, not requiring much adjustment or preparation.
However, returning home resembles much more of a culture shock; repatriation to a home country may bring back issues of coping with change, sadness at departure and self-doubt. Repatriation is the last and often undermined phase of the expatriate cycle. Below is an example of what we mean by demonstrating individual concerns when returning to home countries:
“Back home everyone else expects people to slip into the same old role held previously. Part of you likes the fact you can speak the language, can blend in with the rest of the population and be able to meet your old university friends for a coffee at the same café where you used to meet ten years ago.
But perhaps that café does not exist anymore and then a friend suggests another meeting place that you have no clue about or where it’s located. Your hometown has changed, people around you have changed and also you have changed.
Homeward Bound: A Spouse’s Guide to Repatriation
The changes are apparent everywhere you go: at work, in banks and even the way a bus driver greets you seems awkward. You may feel like a child who is exploring a new place alone for the first time. You start to wonder why you returned home only to find out that home doesn’t really feel like a home and that you do not know exactly who you are.”
Transition to your home country is not always smooth, but with careful preparations and time, you will be able to readapt and relearn your culture. Give yourself time and research like you were doing before you went on a new assignment.
Find out if there is a social network for repatriates in your area. Keep in touch and get involved with a local expat community as this enables you to continue to socialise with other internationals.
You can also find inspiration, support and resources from books, on-line communities and networks, or you can contact a life-coach or a consultant who specialises in repatriation issues.
Books
“The Art of Coming Home” by Storti Graig (2001). 169 pgs. Nicholas Brealey Publishing.
“Homeward Bound: A Spouse’s Guide to Repatriation” by Robin Pascoe (2000). 212 pgs. Expatriate Press Ltd.
Returning to Denmark
Danish Immigration Service – information for Danish repatriates about their rights and the procedure.
Hjemvendte – This is an excellent social network and a rich source of information for Danish repatriates.
You can also read stories about how other Danish repatriates have experienced landing to Denmark.
Verdensborger – This is a network for the Danes who identify themselves as “global citizens”.
About Repatriation
Articles on repatriation – by ExpatRepat Services.
Expat Expert – site designed for expat families living and working overseas.
Expat Women – on-line community created to helping women living overseas.
“Homecoming Hangover?” – Article by Eric Nielsen in China Daily (09.07.2007)
“Reentry: Coming ‘Home’ to the Unfamiliar” – by Sheila J. Ramsey & Barbara Schaetti 1999).
