Ways to Stay Connected with Friends and Family Back Home
Relocating to another country for work is an experience that is equal parts thrilling and haunting (di ka papatulugin). For Filipino nurses who have either thought about it or have already made the big move to the United States, keeping connected with their hometown friends and family is crucial for their mental health. While distance may seem too big—as in magkaibang time zone, here are some handy tips for staying connected:
Social Media - The proliferation of social media has made it easier than ever to stay in touch with loved ones far away. Whether it's Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp, you can share photos, updates, and messages with your loved ones. And with video and voice call features on these platforms, you'll feel like kasama mo sila despite being thousands of miles apart. Gawa ka ng digital journal so they can follow your American adventure.
Phone Calls and Texts - While social media is an obvious choice, there are times when you simply need to hear the sound of your loved one's voice. Power tip: since Dollars na ang sweldo mo, ikaw na ang mabgayad. Scheduling regular phone calls, or even sending text messages, can help keep you connected. And if you're concerned about the cost of international calls kasi nagtitipid ka, there are plenty of affordable or even free calling apps that you can use.
Video Conferencing - Another option for staying connected is through video conferencing. With platforms like Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet, you can have face-to-face conversations with friends and family back home, reducing the feeling of being away from them. You can also use these tools to organize virtual gatherings, strengthening your bonds even further. Just find the right schedule, wag ka makipag-chikahan while at work.
Regular Updates - While staying connected is essential, it can be easy to lose touch. So make it a habit of sending regular updates to your loved ones, be it through social media, text, or email. Ito na yung digital journal idea. Kunwari artista ka, at yung buhay mo naman ang aabangan ng fans (family) mo. This idea ensures everyone is up to speed with what's going on in each other's lives, despite the distance.
Plan Visits - Even though you're far away, visiting friends and family back home remains critical. Aim to make a trip at least once a year (if pwede), or as frequently as your schedule and budget allow. These visits offer an opportunity to catch up, create new memories, and reinforce your relationships. If you can’t take travel due to work, bring them over. Mas masaya yun!
So, while relocating to the United States for work can make staying connected with friends and family challenging, it is still a vital aspect of preserving your emotional well-being. By following the tips outlined above (and by being still reachable and humble), you'll be able to stay connected and make the most of your time in a new country.
