Baby calm down!”

When Nikki, a temporary foreign worker at a well-known quick-service restaurant in Durham Region, collapsed while working as a baker, the incident raised serious concerns. 911 was called, but the restaurant’s operations continued with little or no disruption.

This event sheds light on the intense pressures faced by new immigrants, especially those in physically demanding jobs, and the urgent need to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

As a new immigrant, there are countless expectations and challenges to navigate. From cultural adjustments to financial pressures, it’s easy to lose sight of your personal well-being. If you’ve ever found yourself overwhelmed by work or burdened by the demands of starting a new life abroad, Nikki’s experience might resonate with you.

Let’s explore some common challenges new immigrants face and, more importantly, how to establish a balanced and fulfilling life.

Challenges faced by new immigrants
How NOT to live as as a new immigrant in Canada: Lessons from Nikki

Moving to a new country brings a unique set of hurdles. Here are a few that many newcomers, like Nikki, have to contend with:

  1. Workplace stress and exhaustion

Many new immigrants work long hours in physically demanding roles. For some, the idea of “taking a break” seems impossible when you’re trying to make ends meet. Nikki’s collapse is a stark reminder of the risks tied to overwork, especially when adjusting to a new environment.

The expectation to continuously push yourself can be overwhelming, especially in fast-paced industries like food service. When you’re constantly in “survival mode,” it’s easy to prioritize work over your health. But as Nikki’s story shows, overworking can have serious consequences.

  1. Pressure from family and friends

When you’re living abroad, your loved ones back home might assume that your life is filled with success and opportunity. They may not fully understand the difficulties you’re facing. You may feel pressured to maintain a facade of prosperity, even when you’re struggling to adapt.

Every gesture, and every update you share is often seen as proof of “living the dream,” and this can weigh heavily on new immigrants, pushing them to work even harder to meet these expectations.

  1. Adapting to a new financial system

One of the most jarring changes for new immigrants is adjusting to a different financial system. Back home, you might have been used to paying bills annually (for things like rent), but in many countries, rent and other major expenses are due monthly.

This shift forces you to find a steady income source quickly, often leading to longer work hours just to cover basic needs. The stress of managing these new financial demands can leave little room for rest or personal time, adding to the overall burden.

How to achieve work-life balance as a new immigrant

With these challenges in mind, how can new immigrants avoid burnout and achieve a healthier balance? Here are a few tips:

  1. Be realistic with your goals

When you first arrive in a new country, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new opportunities. You may have big dreams and aspirations, but it’s important to stay realistic. Instead of chasing lofty fantasies right away, break your goals into manageable steps.

Focus on one thing at a time, whether it’s securing stable housing or finding a reliable job. Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight.

  1. Live within your means

It’s tempting to work overtime to make extra money, especially with monthly bills piling up. However, constantly pushing yourself beyond your limits can lead to burnout. Try to live within your means, even if it requires making temporary sacrifices. The less financial stress you have, the easier it will be to avoid the trap of overworking.

  1. Prioritize physical activity

Sitting behind a counter or at a workstation all day without any form of exercise can take a toll on both your physical and mental health. However, finding time for exercise can be challenging. If a gym membership isn’t within your budget, don’t worry—simple walks around your neighbourhood can work wonders.

Taking time to move your body helps relieve stress, boost energy levels, and improve overall well-being, all of which are essential for maintaining balance in a demanding work schedule.

  1. Avoid the “work-home-work” routine

It’s easy to fall into the monotonous routine of going from work to home and returning to work the next day. But life is about more than just surviving—it’s about thriving. Make an effort to break this cycle.

Engage with others by joining local community groups, attending events, or even finding online forums where you can connect with people in similar situations. Building a network not only provides valuable social interaction but also helps make your new life feel less isolating.

  1. Believe in yourself

Above all, it’s essential to maintain faith in yourself. The road ahead may be tough, but always remember why you moved in the first place. Whether it was for better opportunities, safety, or a brighter future for your family, hold on to that motivation. With time, perseverance, and self-care, you’ll be able to strike the balance you need to thrive.

Building a better future for yourself

Adjusting to a new life isn’t easy, but with patience, resilience, and the right strategies, you can build the balanced, fulfilling life you envisioned when you first decided to make the move.

Nikki’s story is a cautionary tale for new immigrants.

Rema’s big hit song, Baby calm down!” is also a sound reminder to immigrants and hustling newcomer entrepreneurs in Canada.

By Tunde Mogaji

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