How to Handle Living in a New and Conservative Culture

TravelPride
Aug 27, 2017 · 4 min read

by Julia Ismail

Culture changes can be uncomfortable, to say the least.

When you’re initially starting a new life elsewhere, cultural differences can creep up on you at any given moment.

First, keep in mind that packing up and starting a new life elsewhere is a brave as it is adventurous, so definitely take a moment to give yourself a mental high five regarding that aspect of your journey.

Second, you should begin to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself for the changes that will inevitably occur, no matter how many times in your life you’ve been abroad.

In my last article, I talked about cultural adjustments, and the steps that come along with it. Cultural adjustment pertains to all types of new environments, but for the LGBTQ community, in particular, finding your footing in a conservative culture can prove a bit of a challenge.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to ensure a smoother and easier transition into your new life.

Get ready to research

You should be tolerant of other cultures and their acceptance of foreigners and foreign mentalities- but you also reserve the right to choose to settle into a culture that accepts you for who you are entirely.

You don’t want to be stuck in a place long term that doesn’t allow you the freedom of living the life you want, so be sure to do thorough research before you pack up and go. Otherwise, learn the customs and the practices well enough that you blend in, rather than stick out.

Be prepared to learn

Vacationing is not comparable to living in a new place.

You may have enjoyed your vacation time and found it easy to converse with the locals, but learning their culture for an extended period of time is a whole new ball game.

This Business Insider article on adapting a new culture is excellent because it touches on the points of why the simple daily task of cooking within a new culture is the best way to live within it. This is a great way to connect with people in that culture, find hidden gems like local food shops, and meet like-minded people that are figuring out their new lifestyle, just like you.

Of course, cooking is just one way develop a deeper connection of where you live. Read up on it, make local friends and explore your new city and your surroundings- you just might be surprised on what you’ll find.

Accept discomfort as a new freedom

From How to Learn and Adapt New Cultures:It’s okay to be uncomfortable; in fact, it is one of the best things that you can ever do. Maybe the thought of eating a worm makes you feel a bit sick to your stomach, but when you’re in Namibia and they offer it to you as a gift because it’s one of their countries dishes — you eat that worm with a smile. When you face uncertainties head on, you learn how well you really can adapt to and learn a new culture.”

The discomfort you might be feeling should be a cherished feat. The feeling will rise up during many settings when you’re living abroad, especially when you’re in a place where your original values don’t align up with your new ones. Discomfort will persist until you’re experienced and comfortable enough to enter a room with ease. Don’t fight this feeling just because it’s something new; embrace it. The discomfort you’re feeling simply means you’re stepping into new territories- and that’s what a new place is all about, isn’t it?

Keep an open mind at all times

Not everything will make sense to you, and there will be times where you’ll end up confused and frustrated with the new environment you’re in. The best way to learn and accept all these experiences is by holding onto open-mindedness and a positive attitude, no matter what.

Sometimes cultural adjustment may not come easy on both ends- both for you and the community surrounding you. As you become more accepting and understanding of the norms, your inner person will naturally adapt to those around you.

Many benefits come with an open mind, the top two being a boost in creativity and worldliness. Scientists have proven that living in another culture benefits your creative mind before, so take advantage of the new brain blessings instilled upon you.

Adapting to a new place may prove a little uncomfortable and maybe even difficult at first. At the end of the day, your happiness proves to be the important aspect, and with a little bit of practice, persisting through the changes will help you find your place settling in.

TravelPride

LGBTQ+ Travel, News, Social Issues, and more

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TravelPride

Written by

LGBTQ+ Travel and News

TravelPride

LGBTQ+ Travel, News, Social Issues, and more

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