Feeling Immigrant Regrets? 9 Tips To Stay Positive After Moving To Canada

Moving to a new country like Canada is a life-changing decision that comes with both excitement and challenges.

For many immigrants, the adjustment period can bring feelings of doubt, frustration, or sadness—commonly referred to as immigrant regret.

These emotions are normal, but they can make the transition even harder. For more detailed advice on navigating this adjustment, check out the Canada Newcomer Settlement Guide.

In this guide, we’ll explore why immigrant regret happens and share 10 practical tips to help you stay positive, overcome challenges, and build a fulfilling life in Canada.

What Is Immigrant Regret and Why Is It Normal?

Immigrant regret is the emotional struggle many newcomers face after moving to a new country. It’s often caused by unmet expectations, financial stress, cultural differences, or homesickness.

Recognizing that this is a normal part of the adjustment process is the first step to overcoming it.

Common Causes of Immigrant Regret

• Unrealistic Expectations: Life in Canada may differ from the dream you envisioned.
• Financial Pressure: High living costs and job struggles can lead to frustration.
• Cultural Differences: Adapting to a new culture and language can feel overwhelming.
• Homesickness: Missing loved ones and familiar surroundings is natural.

Pro Tip: Accept that feeling regret is normal. It’s a temporary phase, and with time and effort, you’ll begin to feel more settled.

10 Practical Tips for Staying Positive as a Newcomer

Here are 10 actionable tips to help you cope with immigrant regret and make Canada feel like home:

1. Reflect on Your Reasons for Moving

Revisit the reasons why you decided to move to Canada. Whether it was for better career opportunities, safety, or a brighter future for your family, focus on the bigger picture.

How to Stay Grounded:

• Write a list of long-term goals you hope to achieve in Canada.
• Reflect on the opportunities you have now that weren’t available in your home country.
• Remind yourself that every difficult phase is part of the process.

For more guidance on overcoming these challenges, check out these tips for new immigrants to Canada to help you stay positive and adapt more easily.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

Settling into a new country takes time. Building a career, forming friendships, and feeling “at home” in Canada can take months or even years.

What to Expect:

• You may need to start with entry-level jobs while working toward your dream career.
• Social integration takes time, especially if you’re adjusting to new cultural norms.
• The cost of living may feel overwhelming at first, but budgeting can help.

Pro Tip: Break down your goals into small, actionable steps. For example, focus on finding a survival job first, then work toward a role in your field.

3. Build a Support Network

Feeling isolated is a major contributor to immigrant regret. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can make a significant difference.

How to Build Connections:

• Join local immigrant or cultural organizations.
• Use platforms like Meetup, Facebook groups, or newcomer forums to find like-minded people.
• Volunteer to meet new people and gain Canadian experience.

Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to reach out to others. Many immigrants have gone through similar struggles and are often happy to help.

4. Focus on Self-Care and Mental Health

Immigrant regret can take a toll on your mental health. Prioritizing self-care will help you stay positive.

Practical Self-Care Tips:

• Exercise regularly to reduce stress and boost your mood.
• Practice mindfulness or meditation using apps like Headspace or Calm.
• Seek professional help if needed—many provinces offer free or low-cost counseling services for newcomers.

Pro Tip: Acknowledge your emotions without judgment. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed or homesick.

5. Celebrate Small Wins

It’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong, but recognizing your progress can boost your confidence.

Examples of Small Wins to Celebrate:

• Landing your first job in Canada, even if it’s not in your field yet.
• Learning to navigate public transit or completing a difficult task.
• Making a new friend or having meaningful conversations with locals.

Pro Tip: Keep a journal of your accomplishments to remind yourself of how far you’ve come.

6. Embrace Canadian Culture (While Honoring Your Own)

Learning to appreciate Canadian culture can help you feel more connected to your new home. At the same time, staying connected to your own culture can provide a sense of comfort.

How to Embrace Canadian Culture:

• Celebrate Canadian holidays like Canada Day or Thanksgiving.
• Explore local traditions, cuisine, and outdoor activities like skating or hiking.
• Practice your English or French skills to feel more confident in daily interactions.

How to Stay Connected to Your Culture:

• Cook traditional meals or attend cultural events in your area.
• Connect with cultural or religious communities.
• Share your culture with new friends—it’s a great way to build relationships.

7. Keep in Touch with Loved Ones

Staying connected to family and friends back home can ease homesickness.

Ways to Stay Connected:

• Schedule regular video calls or phone calls.
• Share updates about your life in Canada through photos or messages.
• Plan trips to visit your home country or invite family to visit you in Canada.

8. Seek Help from Immigrant Services

Canada offers a wide range of resources to support newcomers. If you’re looking for the essential list of services available, check out our article on Immigration Services for Newcomers to Canada.

Examples of Services:

• Settlement agencies like YMCA or Immigrant Services Canada for housing, government-funded language training in Canada, and job assistance.
• Employment programs to help with resume building and job searches.
• Mental health organizations like CMHA (Canadian Mental Health Association) for free or affordable counseling.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of these resources—they’re designed to help you succeed.

9. Remind Yourself That Change Takes Time

Building a new life in Canada is a journey, not an overnight success. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but remind yourself that you’re making progress every day.

Frequently Asked Questions