Should I Emigrate from Greece: Navigating Career Challenges and Personal Prospects

Emigrating from a place you have studied, worked, and built ties can be a challenging decision, especially when things aren't going as planned in your current location. This article delves into the complexities of making such a move and offers insights into the decisions of those who have faced similar situations in Greece.

Personal Experiences of Greeks Emigrating

The decision to emigrate from Greece is a personal one, influenced by factors such as career prospects, personal goals, and family dynamics. Many Greeks have chosen to emigrate for better opportunities, just as they face challenges at home.

Professional Opportunities Abroad

Take, for example, the story of a male individual in his mid-thirties who studied medicine in Greece but moved to Sweden for further training in pediatrics. Upon completing his training, he returned to Greece for a brief period before eventually settling in another country. His journey echoes that of others who have sought professional development abroad. Similarly, a female who studied law in Greece and Germany and worked as a lawyer in Hanover for four years, also moved to find better prospects for her career.

Family and Personal Reasons for Emigration

For a couple of architects in their early forties, moving to Australia ten to twelve years ago was a strategic decision to improve their lives. However, they faced challenges in settling and eventually returned to Greece. An example closer to home is a woman's mother-in-law, who trained as a midwife in the UK in the 1960s and then shifted to the Midlands for work. Her story illustrates how career transitions can shape one's life, often followed by a return to the homeland.

Perceptions of Emigration

Understanding the value of the country one calls home is crucial. One’s circumstances can change, and opportunities abroad can indeed seem brighter. Consider the example of a driver in Pakistan who earns significantly more in Dubai, enabling him to provide for his family. This highlights the importance of not taking for granted the advantages of living in a country like Greece.

Balancing Pros and Cons

Those considering emigration should weigh the pros and cons carefully. While other countries offer higher salaries and better career prospects, they often come with the stress of starting anew and the challenge of fitting in culturally. It's essential to assess personal and professional goals, financial stability, and emotional readiness.

Personal Journey of a Psychologist

Here’s another perspective: a person in their late twenties or early thirties, having finished a Bachelors and Masters in Psychology and pursuing post-graduate training in System Psychotherapy, is facing significant hurdles. Despite numerous job applications, they find themselves in customer service jobs with insufficient salaries. Continuous interviews without responses and inadequate compensation have left them feeling hopeless and exhausted.

Seeking Employment Abroad

The individual wonders if emigrating for a better job would be worth the effort, especially considering the language barrier and the difficulty in finding a job abroad if one does not speak the local language. On the other hand, they consider settling for a less relevant job with a comfortable salary, despite lacking satisfaction from their chosen field.

Advice for Future Movers

Those contemplating emigration should consider the following tips:

Evaluate your current situation and set clear goals. Consider language barrens and cultural adjustments before making a move. Explore job opportunities and educational prospects in target countries. Network and utilize resources available online and through professional associations. Prepare mentally for the challenges of a new environment. Seek advice from professionals in the field and locals in your target country.

In conclusion, the decision to emigrate is multifaceted and deeply personal. While opportunities abroad can be enticing, they also come with their set of challenges. Understanding and weighing these factors can help in making a well-informed decision that aligns with one’s goals and aspirations.