Dealing with Culture Shock

Relocating overseas will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a foreign culture filled with new foods, a new climate, a new language and a new culture.

At first the experience can be very exciting as you take in all the new sights and sounds, but after the excitement wears off the stress of the situation can become more obvious in daily life.

At first, you may feel very positive about the new location and you will be fascinated by the new food, the new people and the new way of life.

After getting settled in, the newness of the situation wears off and you may start to find things different, frustrating and interactions with locals can be unusual and unpredictable.

 When you experience culture shock, there are some courses of action you can take to get better acclimated to your new surroundings.

Planning ahead and recognizing signs of culture shock can help minimize negative experiences associated with international moves.

Before moving to a new country, become as familiar as possible with your adopted country’s culture.

Learning and respecting local customs will help make your overseas relocation a smoother and more enjoyable process.

Language

If the country you are moving to speaks a language that differs from your native tongue, do your best to learn the new language.

Being unable to have conversations in social situations can be extremely frustrating.

You will want to be able to communicate at work, ask questions about food at restaurants or markets, get directions if you are lost and have conversations with neighbors and new friends.

Having no knowledge of a country’s language will limit your ability to adapt to the country’s culture.

 Food

Learn about the local cuisine and try to find restaurants in your native country that serve the cuisine so you can become familiar with the foreign flavors before you move.

Learn what spices and dishes you like so you can know what to expect when you relocate overseas.

Social Norms

Many individuals tend to overvalue their culture and avoid accepting that different cultures have different norms.

Research the local customs and social norms of the country to better prepare yourself for your international move.

For example, you will want to know what to do when invited to a person’s home or how to behave appropriately in social settings.

People may dress differently for social occasions and formal events, so you will want to be aware of what is expected.

Don’t get frustrated as it will take time before you master the nuances of the local culture and recognize the significance of non-verbal behaviors.

 Religion

If your adopted country’s religion is different from your own, take time to research the religion so you understand its impact on the local’s values, culture and interactions.

Making Friends

Join local gyms or interest groups to meet other expats or locals with similar hobbies.

Finding friends and new social network will help you feel less isolated and help you adjust to your new surroundings.

There are many resources for meeting new people on the internet, so research different expat websites to meet new people and get helpful tips about your new location.

Becoming friend with other expats who are experiencing culture shock or who have already gone through the process will help you adapt to the unfamiliar environment.

Relating your experiences to other expats can help make your adjustment easier.

Remember to keep in touch with your family and friends through email, phone and Skype.

Communicating with the people you are close to can be very comforting.  

Soon enough you will begin to accept and become accustomed to the new culture.

By immersing yourself in the country’s culture, you will feel less isolated and accept the behaviors of the local people.

Acclimating to your new surroundings will help you enjoy the new and exciting experience of moving abroad.

You will even begin to accept your adopted country as your new home.

 Article provided by IntlMOVE Inc.