Dr. Suzanne Anderson, Director and Counselor at Restorative Community Counseling, has given a talk on repatriating for the American Association of Singapore for many years. Moving home is often more challenging than moving overseas, but there are some strategies that you can employ to make everything go a bit more smoothly. There are some variables to consider when moving, and each can determine how easy or hard a move will be for you. So you need to take stock of these and go into the move with your expectations realistically set. For starters, Dr. Anderson says to build a RAFT.
R - Reconciliation Be sure to leave Singapore with relationships in a good place. People often don't know how to say goodbye, which can sometimes create tension. Kids, in particular, don't have the skills to say goodbye well, and they can sometimes break things off very suddenly with friends, as saying goodbye is awkward or painful. Perhaps some relationships have had some trouble in the past. Be sure to make an effort to reconcile these relationships especially. Even if the friend on the other end doesn't receive your overtures well, reaching out is essential for your psyche as you leave.
A - Affirmation Strengthening the relationships we have made before we leave is important. If you look at a map of the world, it seems like you know somebody everywhere on the globe. Kids, in particular, have friends scattered in countries on every continent. And these relationships can continue via Facebook, Snapchat, or other social media. It's important to affirm these relationships before you leave. In many cases, the friends you've made here have been your family away from family. Make sure you acknowledge that. Helpers are also a special consideration. For many adults, the helper is an employee, but that relationship is often more important for kids. Children may have a much stronger connection, so they need more options for saying goodbye, keeping in touch, and acknowledging the importance of the relationship. Helpers can also grow very attached to the children and be heartbroken by saying goodbye to their family.
F- Farewells You must do a proper farewell for people, places, pets (if they're not coming with you), and even possessions you give away. While there may be a ton of excitement about going home, there is also a lot to mourn. Be sure to visit special places one last time. Take lots of photos of everything so you can remember it correctly. Landscapes can change, so take pictures to document how you remember special spots. Often, people say they regret not taking enough photos of people and places that were special to them.
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