Sign up for CFSCM Newsletter Coming home: how to deal with reverse culture shock If settling back home after an international assignment will often bring you lot of joy and comforting feelings, there are also many challenges when coming back home that most people don't expect and are not prepared to face. If you think the hardest part of the expatriation was to move abroad, returning home for former international workers can also be extremely complex. It is critical to prepare the repatriation both on private and professional levels before hand. Why does this happen? While on an international mission, most expatriates often have unrealistic anticipations about the outcomes. In his book "Repatriation -- the toughest assignment of all" (1999) Brian Hurn listed the most common expectations the expatriates have: - I do not need professional help with repatriation. I'm going home, therefore no problems - My family will also find returning home presents few problems - Everything will be basically the same as when I left - Everything is cleaner, better organized, safer and easier at home - People back home are more efficient and courteous - I'll be better off financially when I return home - My friends will be keen to hear about my exciting experiences - I expect some form of promotion on returning home as I will be able to apply what I have learned abroad - Because I have been successful in my job abroad, I expect to be equally successful on my return