Thousands of stories of hardships and struggles of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have been told and re-told. Despite this, many Filipinos still try their luck in a foreign land in search of a better life.
For first-timers who want to know what it takes to make it as an OFW, here are some of the things you can take to heart.
1. Lakasan ang loob
An OFW named Aida told The Filipino Times that one of the most crucial things an aspiring OFW must have in order to survive life abroad is “lakas ng loob.” Many aspiring OFWs already know how hard being an overseas worker could be based on countless accounts of OFWs or our ‘modern day heroes’. Despite this, they only realize how hard it really is once they take the first step onto foreign soil.
In moments like this, Filipino workers abroad must draw strength from within and remember the very reason they decided to fly overseas to work. Lakasan lang ang loob!
2. Expectations may be far from reality
Carlo is a young OFW who decided to work abroad at the age of 21. Young and fresh out of college, Carlo left the Philippines full of hopes and dreams. It was only after a few years of being abroad that Carlo learned that expectations could be far from reality.
A tip from seasoned OFWs to first-timers: expect to experience failures and hardships. At the same time, expect that some of your expectations will not be met. Many OFWs have a concrete plan before flying abroad but years after stepping foot in their ‘second home’, many of them feel they are no longer in the path they envisioned themselves in years prior.
Despite this, never give up and never let go of your dreams. Through hard work and dedication, they will eventually come to fruition.
3. Don’t trust too soon
Being alone in a foreign land, OFWs try their best to look for people they can trust, people who can become their second family in a foreign land. Word of advice —don’t trust too soon.
There will always be people who will take advantage of your naivety no matter where you are. Learn how to trust the right people.
4. Hold your head high
Jonalyn, a domestic helper, believes many people look down on OFWs. However, she said that being an OFW is both an honor and a responsibility.
For instance, being a domestic helper does not make you less of a person. Your seemingly simple cooking ability as a domestic helper, if done with dedication, could make you a chef.
5. Plano mag-OFW? Pag-isipang mabuti at paulit-ulit
Marie said choosing to become an OFW is one of the biggest decisions in her life. An aspiring OFW should really think and re-think about deciding to work overseas. One has to deal not only physical burden. Your emotional and mental strength will also be put to the test.
