Travelling home this summer and worried you will be judged?
Returning to our hometowns after moving abroad can be an emotional experience for expatriate women who have undergone significant personal and financial growth. Many of my clients tell me they find themselves apprehensive and nervous about going home and seeing family and friends. They tell me they feel financial guilt and are worried their friends will judge them for their new nicer clothes, designer handbag and perceived easier way of life.
The unfamiliarity and changes they have embraced in their lives, such as their new experiences, altered spending habits, and increased wealth, can create a sense of unease when faced with old friends and family members. The fear of being judged, the guilt associated with their success, and the pressure to overcompensate for their achievements can be overwhelming. However, by reframing their mindset and using this opportunity to understand themselves better, they can navigate this delicate situation with grace and maintain their newfound conscious finance practices.
Embrace Self-Reflection:
Returning home offers a unique chance for self-reflection and introspection. Take a moment to explore the emotions that arise when facing judgment or guilt about your success. Consider the limiting beliefs or insecurities that may be triggered in these situations. By recognizing and acknowledging these emotions, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your growth journey.
Instead of viewing this experience as negative, reframe it as an opportunity to put your abundance mindset to the test. Challenge yourself to see these encounters as a chance to strengthen your newfound financial perspective. Ask yourself, "How can I maintain a positive mindset while reconnecting with my loved ones?"
Authenticity and Vulnerability:
When visiting your hometown, it's essential to stay true to yourself and embrace authenticity. Remember that your personal growth should be celebrated, not hidden away. It's natural to evolve and change over time, and this should be a source of pride, not shame.
Wearing your new more expensive clothes confidently, carrying your cherished handbags, and embracing your achievements does not make you any less relatable or likable. In fact, it can inspire others to aspire to their own goals. Share your journey with your loved ones, discussing how your perspective on money has shifted and the positive impact it has had on your life.
However, vulnerability is also crucial during these encounters. Acknowledge that while you have experienced growth and success, you still value the connections and relationships you have back home. Avoid overcompensating or trying to prove your worth through excessive generosity. Be genuine in your interactions, and allow space for others to share their experiences as well.
Maintaining a new abundance mindset:
One concern many expatriate women face during their homecoming is the fear of regressing to a lack mindset. They worry that the positive views they have developed around money and wealth may be challenged or diminished. To address this concern, it is important to stay grounded in your financial principles.
Remember that your approach to money is based on your personal growth and experiences. This does not make it superior or inferior, but simply unique to you. Find a balance between honoring your values and respecting the beliefs of others.
Share your insights and lessons learned in a non-judgmental and empowering manner. Offer guidance and resources to those who express interest in your new way of viewing money and habits. By sharing your story, you can inspire positive change in others and foster a more open and accepting environment.
One of my clients shared how her friend confided she was inspired by her move to Dubai and how well she was doing. Her friend told her she now felt motivated and confident to move country for a job opportunity after seeing the positive changes that decision brought to her friends life. My client was humbled by this information but I wasn’t surprised. She handles her success and wealth with grace and uses her money in line with her values. Yes, she has improved her lifestyle, wardrobe and social life but also saves, invests and always helps others whenever she can. It’s no wonder she is an inspiration to her friends back home.
Returning to your hometown as a successful expatriate woman can be a complex and emotional experience. However, by reframing your mindset, embracing authenticity, and maintaining your conscious finance habits, you can navigate this journey with confidence and grace. Use this opportunity to learn more about yourself, become aware of limiting financial beliefs, and strengthen your abundance mindset. Remember, your success should be celebrated, and it can also inspire others to strive for their own financial growth. Embrace the connections and relationships that have shaped your journey, while staying true to your newfound perspective on money and wealth.