Tips for Dealing with Culture Shock

So what really is this whole “culture shock” thing and what are you supposed to do if you feel it? In this post, we hope to break down truly what “culture shock” is and give you some tips for coping with it!

Culture shock comes as an effect of experiencing a new, different environment and norms, and is the journey of becoming acclimated to new and strange surroundings. It’s the process of being cut off from your familiar culture and learning to understand this new place.

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As far as coping with it…Well, everyone has their own process, but we’ve tried to gather some of the best tips and pointers experts had for trying to cope and adjust to a new world.

1. Avoid thinking about home!
   This one may seem obvious, but try to avoid constant comparisons of your new world to home. Settling in will never be easy if you’re constantly making comparisons — learn to just accept, and love, your new home for its own uniqueness.
2. Get active.
   Find a new hobby or activity that can generate passion and excitement. Maybe even find something that you wouldn’t be able to do at home! Finding something to get you out the door makes time and life easier.
3. Don’t be afraid to share.
   You’re not alone in this new journey, be sure to let your friends, coworkers and or roommates how you feel. They are a great support system and maybe even have tips of their own!
4. Go easy on yourself.
   Learning a new language, place and culture can be overwhelming. Don’t let your mistakes or struggles get you down. Just keep learning and trying, and don’t put so much pressure on yourself — it’s okay to not know everything yet.
5. Say yes!
   Say yes to weekend travels, nights out with new friends or a morning coffee date. These experiences will all come to be treasured, so get outside and take advantage of all your new place has to offer. You’ll never remember moments that didn’t happen.
6. Meet others.
   Find new friends and new people that will make your new place feel more like home. Making friends with other travelers or internationals may give you an outlet to vent and be understood. Find people who make this transition a positive one.
7. Find one thing you really love.
   Find a local coffee shop, park or even an activity that you really love or enjoy. It could be something that even reminds you of home. When things get tough, go to this place or participate in your favorite activity. It will make the bad times memorable, enjoyable and easier to handle.
8. Know that it’s normal!
   In the end, just know that what you’re going through is completely normal and that you don’t need to beat yourself up or feel bad about how you’re feeling. Everyone has felt this way at some point and they’ve all survived, so just keep chugging along and try to use the above tips. Nothing is an adventure if it’s comfortable!