Reactions of Those left behind
One of the most difficult aspects of moving to another country or state is that you may have to leave behind your friends and family. Leaving friends and family behind can be emotionally draining; People will have varying reactions to your leaving …..
1. There will be those who are thrilled for you and support your decision …..
- Let friends/family know that you appreciate their help and love in this potentially emotional time of your life just in case it is also emotionally difficult for them when you leave.
2. There will be those who are happy for you and support your decision yet feel miserable about your leaving and will make this known. …….
- Although it may be difficult, try to remember that these reactions are due to your loved ones not wanting to lose you. They may feel confused, happy for you, yet sad for themselves and this unbalance may cause mixed emotions which are difficult to deal with for you and them.
3. Some friends and family will be happy for you however realising that you will no longer be around they will slowly cut you loose from their agendas……
- Even though this situation may feel painful try not to attach yourself to this moment. Try to keep in mind that these friends and family members love you and will miss you very much and for this reason they feel a need to protect themselves from these emotions.
4. There may be the odd few who feel you are personally abandoning them…..
- These situations are very difficult to cope with as there is no reasoning with friends and family who are in this mindset. As above this is also a reaction that people can have when they feel emotional about you moving away. .
5. Unfortunately there will be times when family and friends offer no support or have no understanding of why you are moving abroad or to another state. …..
- The only thing I can really suggest is to remind yourself that you are allowed to live your life as you choose and if someone chooses to take that personally then it is in fact an issue which they will have to find a way to cope with.
I know that much of this may seem unfair; you have a lot to deal with when organising a move to another country or state and you seem to have to also deal with the emotions of all around you. There is no avoiding that family and friends will have varying reactions and awareness of these reactions may make it easier for you.
