Shocking, right? But you’ve read the title correctly. If you think becoming an OFW is all rainbows and daisies, think again.
Becoming an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is just like getting hired for any type of work, but it’s different because an OFW is not based on his place of origin, but among the company of other nationalities and foreigners, as well. Needless to say, not everyone is cut out to become an OFW. Here’s why….
Planning to Work Abroad? Consider These Tips Why You Should Not Do It
Many people assume that being an OFW is a fancy thing. The problem there is that not everyone knows what OFWs have to go through to become “successful” in the eyes of the people around them. In this post, we will break down the top 6 reasons why you should not become an OFW:
You Should NOT Become an OFW if:
#1 You were forced into becoming one or felt that it’s your responsibility to sacrifice for your family.
Becoming an OFW, just like anything of great importance in one’s life is a decision that you must personally make. Just because your parents or relatives think that it’s a great way to earn to support yourself and your family, doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for you. It’s important that you make this decision while carefully examining your other options.
#2 You cannot fully commit to becoming one.
Working as an OFW will require one to make big adjustments. For this reason, you personally have to commit to this new change in your life so that it would be easier on your part to cope with everything that will come at you as an OFW.
#3 You take shortcuts and are afraid to do the “dirty work”.
Going back to the point that many people misunderstand what OFWs have to go through because they can only see the glamorous side of being one that fuels the appeal of working overseas from one generation to the next. Unfortunately, these people would not care to talk about the struggles of working as an OFW because it can get a bit sad, knowing that they work long hours and sometimes even get maltreated, abused or discriminated at work. These are just some of the “dirty” side of working overseas. Furthermore, many OFWs are obliged to work twice as hard as their colleagues because they understand that they can not stay in the same position for a long time if they wish to “succeed” in their careers overseas.
#4 You depend on other people too much.
One of the many challenges in being an OFW is living apart from your friends and family, another is the fact that 10/10 times, you will need to depend on yourself in doing even the small things such as cooking, cleaning, and paying the bills, etc. If you’re not ready to do or learn all that, then consider a different career, instead.
#5 You’re not emotionally and mentally mature for it.
Living away from family will cause one to question their decision to work overseas, this is why you need to be mentally and emotionally prepared for this stage of your life. Otherwise, you might suffer in silence, especially since you may not have any immediate contacts you can talk to with your personal struggles in person.
#6 You’re afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
One of the many challenges OFWs need to overcome is how to be open-minded and adaptable in the shortest time possible. This is necessary for one’s success not just overseas but wherever you may be working. Remember, moving away from your comfort zone is a sign of growth. And a good OFW should embrace that as wholeheartedly as they can.
OFW life is not all glitz and glamour. Understanding what this kind of work requires should open our eyes to why this job is not just for anyone. Do you have any points you want to add to our list? Feel free to share them in the comments section below.
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