As with anyone, this year has been one for the books. Everyone who had plans for epic prom pictures, college homecoming, big weddings, traveling and just enjoying 2020 vision goals was curved. Even though I’m 15 time zones away from home during a world pandemic, I can’t complain. I’m safe, healthy, mentally and spiritually sound. Money I planned to travel with this year took an alternative route into my savings account, another plus!
Obligated to separate our needs from wants, we all had to stop, re-calibrate and learn to do better at being grateful. We found ways to offer support for each other through online counseling and talking through our tough times with those closes to us. Practicing social distancing across the globe from loved ones can take a toll on you so, I decided to share my five tips on ways I cope with homesickness.
Tip #1 Home Cooked Meals
Preparing my own food, has helped me cope with being away from southern home-cooking. If you’re on a budget or just want to save money, it’s also a good avenue. I’m able to season food to my liking plus enhance my cooking skill pallet. Another alternative is eating at restaurants that are similar to home. However, don’t expect for them to be exactly like home.
Living in Korea’s international hub, I’m able to order a hamburger or taco here and there but it’s still somewhat different and tailored to Koreans liking. So, I usually find trust worthy restaurants and mark them as my go-to’s when I don’t feel like cooking.
Tip #2 Entertainment
Movies, music, TV sitcoms, you name it! When I was living in America I viewed a lot of Asian films, at the time it was the best way I could experience Asia. Now that I am living in Asia I view a lot of American films. It’s something about observing people interact in American sitcoms that makes me feel like I’m not so far from home. I’m able to catch the humor of the show and not feel left out.
Tip #3 Friends
Yes, it’s good to make local friends. You can practice language exchange, make even more friends and be introduced to some of the best coffee shops. But it can get a bit exhausting when it comes to communication and sharing common childhood memories. Over the year, I’ve grown to fellowship with more American and Canadian beings through church or just through common hobbies. Not on purpose, but I think we gravitate to each other because we share similar struggles.
Whether it’s work, residential or cultural situations, we don’t have to explain ourselves. We’ve created our own expat family celebrating Friendsgiving, Christmas and the New Year together.
Tip #4 Shopping
One of my biggest struggles I have living in Korea. I think if you are really into Korean fashion it will suit you well. Unfortunately, that’s not me, I gravitate towards western brand retailers. Walking into a Zara in Korea is like walking into a Zara in America, there is familiarity there. The sizing is a bit different but I know the quality will be consistent and if I don’t like it I can always return it within a certain amount of time.
Tip #5 Care Packages
Lord, thank you for mommas! I never fully realize how much I miss America until I received a care package from my mom. Opening a big box that smells like my Texas room, unraveling tissue paper stuffed with shoes, clothes and snacks that I left behind elates my heart. Moments like this, I’m reminded that the little things matter. Even if it’s not a care package, a card in the mail saying hello or happy holidays can make a difference too.