Moving to Poland after many years in England is a moment full of emotions, expectations, but also challenges. It would seem that returning to the homeland will be like stepping into old, familiar shoes – comfortable and familiar. However, everyday life in Poland after years spent abroad can look very different than one expects. In this post, I would like to share my reflections on everyday life in Poland after returning from England, compare the two worlds, and describe how I am coping with adapting to the new-old reality.
Back to Poland: First impressions after the move
The first days and weeks after moving to Poland were full of excitement and joy. Returning to the country, meeting family and friends, and rediscovering places that were close to me brought a lot of positive emotions. However, over time, as the first impressions subsided, the challenges of adapting to a new lifestyle began to emerge. The Poland I remembered from years ago has changed significantly. Many cities and towns have undergone intensive modernization, infrastructure has improved, and daily life has taken on a different pace. On the one hand, I was happy to see these changes, but on the other hand, I had to re-learn how to function in Polish reality.
Moving to Poland: A clash with reality
The first days after moving to Poland were full of mixed feelings – from euphoria to uncertainty. On the one hand, I was happy to return to a country that I know and that is close to me. On the other hand, daily life turned out to be somewhat different than what I remembered from before I left. Poland has changed in many respects. The infrastructure is much more developed, cities have become modern, and the cultural and entertainment offerings have grown. However, these changes required me to adapt again – both to the new realities and to the specific pace of life that characterizes Poland.
Rhythm of life: A comparison with England
The rhythm of life in Poland is different from what I’m used to in England. There, daily life is characterized by a high degree of predictability and order – everything is organized, and every aspect of life, from work to daily shopping, is subject to a strict schedule. In Poland, I noticed a more spontaneous approach to daily duties and events. Although at first I had to get used to it, over time it began to suit me. I felt that life flows more slowly here, allowing for more flexibility and more spontaneous moments.
Adaptation challenges: A return to Polish reality
One of the biggest challenges after the move was having to readjust to the Polish official system and daily bureaucracy. Although Polish had always been present in my life, it took me some time to understand some of the formalities or procedures. In England, I was used to simpler, more automated processes, so it took some patience to return to more traditional methods of official service. Another aspect was the work culture. In England, I had to deal with a more formal yet flexible work environment. In Poland, I was surprised by a more direct approach to communication and a slightly different approach to work-life balance. On the one hand, Polish companies offer better and better working conditions, on the other hand, you can still encounter some differences in mentality that require adaptation.
Social integration: Building new relationships after the move
Returning to Poland also meant reintegrating into the local community. Although I returned to a country that is familiar to me, many of the people around me have changed, and I have had to build some relationships anew. The Polish community is very open and helpful, especially in smaller towns, which made my adaptation process easier. I was also surprised by the variety of social and cultural activities available in Poland. There are many events taking place in cities that allow people to meet new people and get involved in local life. For someone who has spent years abroad, returning to Polish culture and customs can be a refreshing experience that brings new perspectives.
Comfort of life: What has changed in Poland?
Daily life in Poland brings both comfort and challenges. On the one hand, access to fresh food, developed infrastructure and a rising standard of living are aspects that positively surprise. On the other hand, I’ve had to re-learn how to navigate a world that is different from what I knew in England – from lifestyles to the organization of public transportation to the specifics of shopping. My priorities also changed. In England I focused on work and career, while in Poland I put more emphasis on work-life balance. For me, less stress and more contact with nature are big advantages of living in Poland, allowing me to recuperate and enjoy simple daily pleasures.
Balancing work and personal life after moving to Poland
One of the biggest challenges for me upon my return to Poland was finding a balance between work and personal life. In England, I was used to a very clear separation of the two spheres of life. In Poland, where the work culture tends to be more flexible, I learned to manage my time more smoothly and combine my professional responsibilities with my family and personal life. I was surprised by how much importance is placed in Poland on time spent with family and friends. Weekends and evenings are often devoted to socializing, which is very different from the more aloof British culture. As a result, I have rediscovered the value of time spent with loved ones, which has had a positive impact on my well-being and life satisfaction.
Moving from England to Poland: the new-old reality
Removals to Poland after years in England has been a journey full of challenges, but also of discovering new opportunities and refreshing old values. Poland, although familiar, turned out to be a country full of new experiences that are changing my daily life for the better. Life in Poland, although different from life in England, offers a unique balance between tradition and modernity, between the intense rhythm of work and the tranquility of family life. Returning to my homeland allowed me to rediscover what has always been important to me, while giving me a chance to grow and adapt to new challenges. For anyone considering a return to Poland after years abroad, it is worthwhile to be prepared for differences and ready for change. The adaptation process can be difficult, but ultimately it is a chance to enrich your life and find your place in the world again. Poland, with its rich culture, hospitality and growing opportunities, is a place worth rediscovering.
