Overwhelmed as an immigrant in Canada? Thrive One step at a time
Starting a new life in a new country is an exciting adventure filled with dreams of new friends, fresh environments and an independent lifestyle. But let us be honest, it may also feel overwhelming at times. If it does, You are not alone!
Moving to a new country means learning new systems, understanding different cultural norms, keeping yourself up through unexpected challenges and trying to blend in. Whether you are an immigrant or an international student it’s perfectly normal to feel like you are juggling too many things at once. Everyone has their own pace and process of adjusting to this new life. While it is not easy to tackle this overwhelming feeling in one shot, it can be managed in small manageable steps toward personal and professional wellness.
Challenges of the New Beginning
The first few weeks are going to be the honeymoon period as you will be in awe of everything. The lonely wave hits after a few weeks along with the cultural differences, and missing the food at home and this will take an emotional toll on you.
And then, there is the stress of managing your daily life. You might be juggling tasks like finding housing, settling up finances or learning about the local transportation. Adding to this mental health takes the backseat. Sleep disruptions, stress and even feelings of anxiety and depression can creep in. If this resonates with you, You are not alone!
I am writing down a few things that I wish people had told me when I was in this situation.
Let us break down how to take care of your well-being when you are adjusting to life in Canada because your physical and mental health directly affects how you handle new challenges.
DO NOT bottle up your emotions
Moving to a new country can stir up feelings of anxiety and depression. It is important to recognize these feelings and address them immediately. Do not cook your emotions within, bottling them up is going to make the baggage heavier. Share your thoughts with someone you trust or write them down. Letting it out lightens the load and helps you regain control. Remember, seeking professional help or connecting with a support group is always a great option too.
Is Owl your new friend? (Don’t get confused, I was referring to your sleep schedule)
You might find it tough to get a good rest with all the changes happening around you. Creating a sleep routine that signals to your body that it is time to wind down. Start by limiting screen time an hour before bed and avoid heavy meals right before sleeping. Try calming habits, like reading or meditating, to get a sound sleep.
Boundaries to protect your energy
It is tempting to say “Yes” to every opportunity, especially when everything feels new and exciting. But trying to juggle too much at once can quickly lead to burnout. Setting boundaries is not just about saying “No”, It is also about choosing what and who to let in. Allow space for people and activities that uplift you while protecting your time and energy from what does not.
Good Food Good Mood
The food-mood connection is real. It is tempting to comfort yourself with easy takeout, and that is okay sometimes, But cooking your meal can be surprisingly uplifting on an emotionally draining day. The act of preparing something for yourself, no matter how simple, can bring a sense of accomplishment and comfort. Plus, nutrient-dense meals like whole grains, leafy greens, and lean protein help you keep your energy steady and mind sharp.
By focusing on these small steps, you will be able to build the foundation needed to tackle the challenges ahead. If you are still unsure don’t worry, there are plenty of resources available online to help you stay on track. Workright, keeping in mind the struggles, has created structured courses which are designed in such a way to support you in achieving personal wellness, guiding you every step of the way.
Professional Wellness
Adjusting to Canadian work culture can feel like a whole new set of challenges. But you’ve got this. Professional wellness isn’t just about fitting in, it is about keeping yourself going by understanding the expectations and adapting to unique aspects of Canadian workplaces. Here is how you can ease your way into a new professional environment.
Basics of Workplace Etiquette
In Canada, professionalism often means punctuality, respect for others’ time and being polite but clear in your communication. Get familiar with these norms so you can make a great impression.
Communication is the Key
In Canada, communication is polite and considerate, especially at work. Instead of being direct, people often express things more softly, like “Maybe we could try this approach. Ask questions at the right time, Do not wait till the last minute to place your question. Listen attentively and respond with respect, through your words, tone, and body language, this helps you build better relationships and collaboration.
Be open to feedback and Give out yours when necessary
Constructive feedback might seem like criticism but is very common in the professional world, It is simply a way to improve. Do not take it personally, use it as an opportunity to grow. Similarly, learn how to provide constructive feedback to others.
Network! Network! Network!
No, we are not talking about the mobile network here, It is the people, the professional network that you have created for yourself. You don’t have to be an extrovert to network (I know extroverts have the upper hand on this but trust me it is possible for everyone). Start by joining LinkedIn groups or professional meetups. Even small conversations can lead to big opportunities.
Navigating difficult situations at the workplace
Can be a challenging colleague or a misunderstanding which results in a conflict. The key is to stay calm, listen to both sides and seek a solution that everyone can agree on.
Diversity in workplace
Canadian workplaces celebrate diversity. Understanding and respecting cultural differences will not only help you get along but will also help build strong supportive professional relationships.
If in need of more guidance on thriving professionally in Canada, Workright offers courses tailored to help you succeed.
Additionally, Workright has developed a comprehensive course covering all the above mentioned topics.
Surviving and Thriving In Canada Designed by professionals who specialise in guiding individuals through challenges, this course serves as your one-stop resource for building a successful and fulfilling life in Canada.