How to Find Happiness When You Are an Immigrant in Another Country?
Immigrants constitute about 13% of the US population. As an immigrant myself, I can confidently say that living in Los Angeles, I always felt that the percentage was a lot higher. Regardless of the numbers, the reality of the journey for an immigrant is not always exciting and easy.
Many immigrants leave their homes in the hopes of starting a new chapter with better conditions. We rarely count on the fact that this huge change in culture, environment, and community can cause significant internal turbulence.
I’ve been through the process of immigration myself a few times in life. Each time, there were different struggles that opened my eyes to new realities. If you are an immigrant as well, keep reading to find out what you can do to speed up the adaptation process.
First stages of immigration
The early stages of moving are the most challenging times. To put it simply, your routine changes, there are not many people to share experiences at the new location, and at the same time, there is the struggle to adapt. In this process, here are a few common emotions one may feel:
- Loneliness:
Leaving your friends and family may be difficult at first. Especially when you see them continuing their lives as always, you may feel left out.
- Sadness
Sadness may creep in when you face difficulties in your new place. I remember that when I first moved to Paris for school, my dorm was in a considerably scruffy neighborhood. I felt very unsafe and sad. It felt like I wouldn’t be able to trust anyone like I was able to in my home.
- Isolation
The issue with being an immigrant is that you get stuck in the middle. It feels like the people in your new environment don’t really get you fully. But at the same time, the people that you left behind cannot comprehend your struggles as well. In the process of adaptation, this can feel isolating.
- Missing your loved ones
Immigration is a process of creating genuine connections in a new country. However, as humans, we crave those human-to-human connections. While you build strong connections, it’s common to miss your family and friends.
- You simply don’t get it
When you move to a different country, things may be completely different. This includes the way the norms and values work as well as the way jobs or even rules work. There may be some situations that you feel like you simply don’t get it!
- Vulnerable
Most of all, moving to a completely new place by yourself, puts you in a vulnerable position. Between learning and adjusting, struggling with emotions won’t be easy. Don’t forget to be graceful to yourself during this time.
Being an immigrant in a new country or city can be challenging especially in the first year.
How to deal with immigration sadness?
Moving to a new place is actually an exciting journey. These two tools will help you enjoy it to the fullest!
Establish tools for grounding
One of the most effective ways of feeling grounded no matter where you go is having effective mind tools established even before leaving; so they can be used anywhere, anytime.
My most recommended and helpful tools are simple routines like meditation, journaling, walking, or a short breathwork routine. These will help you circle back to your balance quickly. Consistency of these habits can also help you feel stable.
In my case, what I really held on to was meditation. It was my breath of fresh air whenever I needed to balance myself as a whole.
Reframe your thoughts
Additionally, it's important to reframe thoughts and set the right expectations as you settle into the new environment.
For example, remember the feelings of loneliness or isolation that were discussed earlier? Remind yourself that even if you may feel frustrated at times, your emotions are just a part of the process.
One should also take into account the cultural differences. These differences can affect us more than we think. By preparing ourselves for these significant changes in advance, reframing the negative thoughts as they come, and being graceful to ourselves during this process, we can actually enjoy our new habitat more!
How to make new friends as an immigrant?
Joining your favorite group activities is a great start. For example, if you liked Pilates in the past, find a Pilates class in your new home and make it a commitment to go there. This can apply to all indoor and outdoor activities.
Since you are new in a place, it's crucial to take the initiative and put yourself out there. Also, when you put yourself out there, don't be afraid to start small conversations with strangers.
You can ask them for a small favor, or compliment them. Even a simple eye contact along with a smile can go a long way. As humans, we are more likely to respond when we are put into position of power.
All in all…
Remember why you started. Based on experience and expertise, I can tell you that the most difficult portion of immigration is the first year. The first year is your time to adjust, establish yourself and create your own environment. In the process, remind yourself why you decided to move and allow your mind and body to adjust!