Today, I want to embark on a journey with you—one that explores the nuanced phases of the immigrant experience. Rather than delving into it all at once, I’ve decided to spread our discussion over the next few weeks. You might be familiar with the graph outlined in my book, where I dissect the three distinct stages: survival, development, and thriving.
Let’s begin with the survival phase. As the name suggests, this stage is about sheer survival. Picture yourself in a new country, navigating unfamiliar terrain, and doing everything in your power to make ends meet. It’s a time of perseverance, where you might find yourself working outside your field or industry, just to get by. Often, this phase is marked by hardship and challenges. You might be struggling to secure employment or juggling multiple responsibilities, such as attending school while adjusting to your new surroundings.
Many immigrants can relate to the feeling of being blindsided by the realities of their new home. I often refer to it as being “slapped in the face” by the country’s welcome. However, amidst the struggles, there are strategies to help you navigate this phase more effectively.
- Network like your life depends on it: First and foremost, networking becomes your lifeline. Coming from a background where you had an extensive network, it can be jarring to suddenly find yourself with only a handful of connections. However, building new relationships is essential for opening doors and opportunities in your new environment. Treat networking as a priority, because in many cases, it can make all the difference.
- Approach your job search like a job: Approaching your job search with diligence is crucial. Treat it like a full-time job itself, establishing a routine and dedicating focused time to applying for roles. Creating structure helps combat the mental challenges that often accompany the survival phase. By staying disciplined and consistent, you’ll maintain a sense of purpose and momentum.
- Keep yourself busy: Keeping yourself busy outside of job hunting is essential for maintaining your well-being. Whether it’s volunteering, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies, find activities that bring fulfilment and keep your mind engaged. Self-care, especially during challenging seasons like winter, is paramount. Remember to prioritize your health and happiness as you navigate this phase.
- Be conscious of the “Black tax”: Lastly, I emphasize the importance of being conscious of what I term the “Black tax.” This phenomenon, which I’ll delve into further in a dedicated video, refers to the pressure many immigrants feel to financially support family members back home while still establishing themselves in their new country. It’s essential to strike a balance between giving back and taking care of yourself, ensuring that you don’t deplete your own resources in the process.
As we journey through the survival phase together, remember these key strategies: prioritize networking, approach your job search with dedication, stay busy and engaged, and be mindful of the black tax. Next week, we’ll explore the development phase—so stay tuned!
For more insights, check out my new book, “Dear Immigrant Soar.” Interested? Be one of the first to join the mailing list today! https://lnkd.in/giQ7XjcW
Until next time, keep pushing forward—you’ve got this!