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Moving to another country is exciting, but it can be a sad story of trying to put up with another culture. Cultural shock does not discriminate on whom to affect; anybody could go through it, whether a university international student or someone just starting a new job abroad. The following article shows how to practically conquer cultural shock in a new country, which by that means ease up the transition in to the new culture and make it rewarding.
Cultural shock is a state of disorientation when a person faces a new culture. It can be manifested through confusion, frustration, homesickness, and even depression. The first feelings of excitement about being in a new place quickly disappear when you have to face unusual customs, a language that you don't fully understand, and social norms different from what you were used to. The key is to recognize that cultural shock is normal.Â
Here's what you can do to resolve it.
1. Enjoy the Experience
To defeat cultural shock, enter your new environment with an open heart. Do not resist the changes; rather, let them welcome you to betterment. Everything in a culture is different, from the food to the way of thinking, and will add spice to your life. And attitude can make all the difference.
2. Learn the Language
One of the major contributors to cultural shock is a language barrier. Learning the local language, even at a basic level, can enhance your capability of communication and interaction with other people. Overcoming this challenge may be assisted by language learning applications, classes, and conversation exchange.Â
3. Build a Support Network
Having a support system in your new country can go a long way in minimizing culture shock. Therefore, it's very comforting to be surrounded by friends, family members, or other expatriates who understand what you are going through. Join social groups, clubs, or online communities in order to meet similar people like yourself and to develop a sense of belonging.
4. Get Familiar with Local Traditions
The feelings of culture shock will be eased by understanding the local customs and social habits. Observe how people greet, dress, and act with regards to various situations. Researching cultural etiquette beforehand can save you from a lot of misunderstandings. Showing respect and adapting to the local customs makes you feel integrated into the community.
5. Stay Connected with Your Roots
Though plunging into a new culture is necessary and important, contact with the roots will provide a sense of identity and comfort. Cooking familiar dishes, celebrating one's favorite holidays, and keeping in contact with close family and friends might ease the shock of being immersed in an absolutely new environment.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Cultural shock can be stressful, so don't neglect good mental health. Try to be mindful, practice meditation, or other ways to manage stress. If you find cultural shock is leading to serious anxiety or depression, seek professional help. Taking care of your mental well-being makes the adjustment process that much easier.
7. Explore Your New Environment
Familiarity with the new environment is best known when one gets to know it. Visit the local attractions, try new food, and get involved in community events. The more comfortable you become with the local culture, the less intimidating it is going to feel. Things that seemed so strange at one point may become what you love most about your new home.
Overcoming cultural shock is a process that takes time. Be patient with yourself, and don't be too hard on yourself when you feel overwhelmed. Moving to a new culture is a big adjustment to living life, so go easy on yourself and take small steps and celebrate the little things.
A cultural shock upon the country entrance may be rather trifling for every immigrant, yet one must learn not to be overwhelmed by it. Further, the development of a support network, language learning, local usage familiarization, and embracing the experience will help an individual to overcome this state of cultural shock. Also, do not forget to pay attention to your mental condition, get to know the place around you, and show patience in the process of adaptation.
Need help with your international move? Oasis Resource Management offers professional assistance in emigrating into another country. We can assist you to make the transition as smooth as it can get. Feel free to contact us today!