We talk a lot about building cross-cultural community. It’s something we love, and we see so much benefit for everyone involved, but the process comes with some challenges, too. Culture Shock can be almost like a literal, electric shock sometimes. It leaves your body exhausted and your brain disoriented from the amount of new input hitting it all at once. And like trying to overcome a physical issue, just pushing through can only get you so far. So here are some tips for an intentional approach to tackling culture shock.
Be Honest
Remember that this is a normal part of moving to a new country. The other expats around you have almost certainly experienced it themselves. So rather than trying to convince yourself it’s no big deal, ask someone who has been there for longer. They can share tips on what helped them get their footing when they first landed in a foreign home.
Ground Yourself (pun intended)
Expat friends aren’t your only resource. There is a ground wire connecting you with loved ones in your passport country. When the culture shock zaps you, they can help reduce that stress by reminding you that you are not alone. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be easy to forget to stay connected to your support system, so ask a few close friends back home to initiate catching up now and then during your first months overseas. They can keep you connected to the events of your family’s lives and remind you that despite the distance, they’re with you, cheering you on.
Get a Taste of Home
Food carries a lot of cultural weight. It is a part of your everyday routine, and scent is strongly tied to memory. Not to mention, it’s something you can make even if it isn’t commonly found in your host culture. Finished or processed foods (and even some ingredients) may not be available, but come up with a few of your favorites with common main ingredients.
For example, eggs and potatoes are fairly common in most places where we teach. Maybe a good old-fashioned breakfast for dinner is the way to go. Everything bagel seasoning is mostly made of common ingredients in the Middle East, so try making your own version to sprinkle on a piece of the local bread.
Your suitcase will have limited space, but some of your go-to spices are sure to fit tucked in between your teaching outfits. A little flavor goes a long way, and you can find creative ways to feel at home with your cooking.
Share Music
Similar to how food engages taste and smell, music is a transporting experience. You’ll spend a lot of time learning about your host culture, especially at first. But your new friends will also be interested in what it’s like where you come from. Sharing food and music can remind you of your roots and help you build a new home and community in your host country.
And on your own, listening to familiar tunes can give your brain a chance to rest at the end of a long day navigating unfamiliar territory.
Keep It in Perspective
It won’t be like this forever. Culture shock is very real, but it’s also something you can overcome. You’ll get used to the differences, your language skills will improve, you’ll find new favorites in your new home, and soon it will feel like just that—home.