Thinking of Moving from Abroad Back Home? Ask Yourself These Important Questions

So you're thinking of moving from abroad back home to your home country. This is a significant decision that can bring a mix of emotions and practical considerations. Whether you’ve been living abroad for a few months or several years, the thought of returning home can feel both comforting and overwhelming. Before you make the move, it’s essential to dig deeper and reflect on why you’re considering this change. Here are some key questions to ask yourself before you make the big decision.

1. Why Did I Move Abroad in the First Place?

Before deciding to pack it all in, think back to what motivated you to move abroad in the first place. Were you seeking adventure, better career opportunities, personal growth, or simply a change of scenery? Have you achieved the goals you set out to accomplish? Understanding whether those reasons have been fulfilled or if they’re still relevant can give you clarity on whether it’s truly time to return or if there’s more you can explore in your current location.

2. Why Do I Want to Move Back Home?

Understanding your motivations is the first step. Are you feeling homesick, missing family and friends, or craving a sense of belonging? Perhaps you’re seeking better job opportunities, a more affordable lifestyle, or an improved quality of life. Clearly identifying your reasons will help you make a more informed decision. However, be sure to connect this to why you moved in the first place. No situation is perfect, and some things require compromise. For example, while salaries might be lower in one country, the overall quality of life could be much higher. Weighing what truly matters most to you can make a big difference.

3. What Will I Be Losing If I Move From Abroad Back Home, and What Will I Be Gaining?

It’s important to think beyond the immediate relief or excitement of going home. What are the specific benefits you’ll gain by returning, and what aspects of your current life will you be giving up? Maybe you’ll regain close proximity to family but lose the vibrant social scene or unique cultural experiences you’ve grown accustomed to. Or you might find stability back home but lose the sense of adventure and freedom you’ve enjoyed. Listing the pros and cons can help you weigh the true impact of your decision.

4. Is This a Decision I’m Going to Regret?

This is a tough but essential question. Moving back might seem like a good idea now, but will you regret it in the long term? Imagine yourself a year from now—will you feel satisfied with your choice, or could you end up longing for the life you left behind? Sometimes, our desire to move back can be driven by temporary emotions like stress, homesickness, or frustration. If those feelings are influencing your decision, take a step back and give yourself more time before committing to such a major change.

5. Where Do I Want to Be in One Year’s

Time?

If your honest answer to this question is that you’re not sure, it might be best to delay your decision. It’s crucial to have at least a short-term direction before making life-altering choices like moving back home. If you can clearly imagine yourself thriving back home, it could be the right move. However, if you can’t picture yourself there or feel torn, it might indicate that you’re rushing into the decision for reasons that need deeper exploration.

Moving back to your home country can be a comforting thought, but it’s important to carefully consider your motivations, the potential trade-offs, and where you see yourself in the near future. This decision isn’t just about returning to what’s familiar—it’s about making sure that the next step aligns with your goals, values, and the life you want to create. Take your time to weigh the options, consider what matters most, and make the choice that’s best for you.