Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging to maintain close connections with friends and family back home, especially when there is a large time difference. Here are some practical tips to help you stay connected with your loved ones, ensuring that distance doesn't diminish your relationships.
1. Schedule Regular Video Calls
One of the best ways to keep in touch is through video calls. Platforms like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime make it easy to have face-to-face conversations, no matter the distance. Scheduling regular video calls, whether weekly or monthly, helps maintain a sense of routine and ensures you don't lose touch.
2. Use Social Media Wisely
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are great for sharing updates and staying informed about each other’s lives. Create private groups or chats where you can share photos, videos, and life updates. This helps keep everyone in the loop and fosters a sense of community.
3. Start a Family Blog or Vlog
If you enjoy writing or making videos, consider starting a family blog or vlog. Document your experiences, share your adventures, and let your loved ones see your new life abroad. This not only keeps them updated but also allows them to feel more involved in your journey.
4. Send Postcards and Letters
In the digital age, receiving a physical letter or postcard can be a delightful surprise. Make an effort to send handwritten notes, postcards from your travels, or small care packages. These tangible tokens of affection can mean a lot to those back home, as well as giving you an opportunity for a stop of selfcare as you stop to reflect.
5. Plan Visits and Invite Family to Visit You
Whenever possible, plan visits to your home country or invite friends and family to visit you. Experiencing your new environment together can create lasting memories and strengthen your bonds. Plan activities and show them around, allowing them to understand your new lifestyle better. If you're living very far away, try planning trips together, at a half way point and make a holiday out of it.
6. Participate in Group Chats
Create group chats on messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Messenger. These platforms allow for quick, informal communication, making it easy to share daily updates, funny moments, or important news. Being part of a group chat helps maintain a continuous line of communication.
7. Share Media Content
Sharing media content such as photos, videos, and voice messages can bridge the gap between you and your loved ones. Use cloud services like Google Photos or Dropbox to create shared albums where everyone can upload and view pictures. This makes it easy to stay visually connected.
8. Host Virtual Game Nights or Movie Nights
Thanks to various online platforms, you can host virtual game nights or movie nights. Use services like Netflix Party for synchronized movie watching or online multiplayer games to enjoy some fun time together. These activities create a shared experience despite the physical distance.
9. Keep Time Zones in Mind
When scheduling calls or planning virtual hangouts, be mindful of the time zones. Use world clock apps to find overlapping times that work for everyone. Being considerate of each other’s schedules helps avoid frustration and makes it easier to stay connected.
10. Be Honest About Your Feelings
Finally, be open and honest about your feelings. Share your experiences, both good and bad, with your loved ones. Let them know when you’re feeling homesick or missing them. Authentic communication strengthens relationships and allows for deeper connections.
Maintaining Relationships After Emigrating
Emigrating abroad is a life-changing experience, but it doesn't mean losing touch with your friends and family back home. By incorporating these tips into your weekly or monthly routine, you can continue maintaining relationships after emigrating and continue to share your life's journey with those you care about most, while keeping up to date with their life events.
If you're struggling with your emigration journey, expat coaching can help you take the steps needed to settle in more quickly and effectively than you would otherwise. Focus on one element at a time, with moral support and guidance through the tough times, and high fives and congratulations for each and every success and step forward. Intrigued? - book your free, no obligation discovery call with me today.
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