One of the few things every Filipino has to decide at one point in their life is whether or not they should try out their luck overseas. And while we’ve heard about plenty of enticing stories about life overseas. Clearly, an OFW’s life is not for everyone.
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If you’re planning or are entertaining the idea about working overseas, then it would be good for you to review our 6-point checklist to set your expectations before becoming part of the 2-million strong community of OFWs all over the world.
Planning to be an OFW? Consider Going Through this Checklist
Becoming an OFW, just like getting married or pursuing a career or higher education, is something that every person has to carefully think about. Sometimes, it’s easier to get swayed into becoming an OFW for the obvious reasons such as high salary, the opportunity to travel, and to explore different cultures. But it’s equally just as important to take note of the challenges that come along with it than only the good things, which can be misleading for many people, right? Here are some of the considerations that you should note to find out if becoming an OFW suits you well:
Becoming an OFW:
#1 Should be part of your plans or goals in life right from the start.
While the opportunity to become an OFW oftentimes presents itself by chance, the decision to become one must somehow be aligned with your plans and goals in life. Having this solid understanding of your purpose to become an OFW will fuel your commitment to this new stage in your life.
#2 Requires 100% commitment and nothing less.
For many Filipinos, the struggle that comes to living as an OFW comes from the fact that their minds and hearts are not into it. Meaning, they’re only after the perks of working overseas and living in a different country but are not prepared to put in the sacrifice and hard work that come along with it.
#3 Requires A LOT of Hard Work.
Apart from the struggle of being far away from family and loved ones, there’s also the fact that working for a foreign employer is a unique experience altogether. Of course, if the pay is better, we can expect that work can be just as demanding or even greater for OFWs. There’s also the fact that the cost of living, will oftentimes require OFWs to put in long hours to maintain their upkeep and at the same time, save up for their families back home.
#4 Is for the Independent Spirit and Go-Getter Types
Perhaps one of the biggest advantages any person can have as an OFW is having a “can do” attitude. Living independently is not something that scares people who have a go-getter attitude. Instead, it fuels their drive and challenges them to become more creative and resourceful in dealing with difficult situations that come along with life as foreigners abroad.
#5 Requires Great Mental and Emotional Strength
As mentioned in point #2, commitment is of great importance to becoming an OFW because commitment will solidify your purpose and at the same time empower your mental and emotional health.
#6 Will Require you to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone.
If you’re used to living a comfortable life back home, do not be surprised if you find adjusting to OFW life quite a challenge, especially at the start. As an OFW, your commitment and psychological health should enable you to take on every adjustment in your life in a positive manner. Otherwise, you might succumb to terrible stress and inability to cope with life overseas.
There’s really no secret as to who should and shouldn’t be an OFW as it is really a wide-open race where anyone can freely join. The important things to consider though are your personal commitment, values, and determination to succeed in this new stage of your life.
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