The apartment needs to be deep cleaned. I need to increase my exercise routine. Lessons need to be planned. Native teacher training materials have to be pulled together for next week’s orientation. Our Krazy for Korea website needs to be updated with all of our summer blogs. Save the Date stationary needs to be ordered. It seems like these past 2 weeks have slipped away from me.
They say that in the stages of living abroad, homesickness comes after the honeymoon stage, about 3-4 months in. Considering this didn’t really happen to me last year, I figured I had fortunately skipped over that ugly beast. From what I have heard from new teachers here from last February’s orientation, falling into the slump can be extremely rough.
I think that I have hit the halfway slump. Last year I was so psyched to be here, and even though I went through small 1-2 day bouts, I was usually super excited and loving every moment.
Although I am not a complete wreck, I am definitely noticing a change in my attitude lately, and it’s not for the better. I am a little more irritable. I am failing to find motivation to do all of the things on my to-do list. I find myself constantly thinking about what is in store for us after we’re done here. As bad as this may be, I am glad that none of it directly has to do with Korea. A lot of people go through a stage where they hate everything about this country. For me, it’s not that I am getting annoyed with Korea, it’s just that I have started to be a lot more into what comes next.
That wouldn’t be that bad if I was done in 6 months, but I’m not.
With some positive reinforcement from Matt, I think that this week is going to be much better than last, but we’ll see.
On a positive note, two weeks from now is Chuseok, Korea’s “thanksgiving”. We have a 4 day weekend and fortunately have nothing planned. I am looking forward to relaxing, while the rest of the country is traveling. We plan on going hiking in the nearby national park, but besides that, it’s going to be pretty low key. Hopefully the weather will be nice so we can picnic on the river.
Day by day, things will get better. It’s hard to stay grumpy for too long before you realize how you have nothing to complain about. I should be singing Korea’s praises and staying optimistic about the next 18 months. I have a job that I like, a (free) roof over my head and the opportunity to save money. More than I could have said 18 months ago.
Bring it on, Monday. I’m (relatively) ready. :)
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