Definition
We feel homesick when we feel out of place where we are and long for the familiar faces and routines of home.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Homesickness tugs us back to a safe base. It nudges us to return or recreate that safety with routines. It also pushes us to form new, stable relationships when return is not possible.
◈ How It Shows Up
“I miss my people”Longing for familiar routines/foodsSeeking calls or texts from homeIsolating from new surroundingsIdealizing home, ignoring past issues
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Video call during a meal or coffee
- Bring one home ritual here
- Cook or buy a comfort food
- Print some photos from home
- Find a new spot with similar vibes
- Start a new tradition or routine
- Be patient, new routines take time
Bad Ideas
- Avoid new people or places entirely
- Doomscroll hometown socials
- Idealize home as perfect
- Refuse to settle in to new places
- Compare new people to old friends
- Make abrupt decisions to quit/move
- Overspend on flights or souvenirs