graystonewine People decide to move to a foreign country for various reasons: professional or personal. However, whatever the reason, it takes us out of our comfort zone to encounter the unknown and discover a new culture. Apart from the administrative and material preparations, it also requires psychological preparation in order to easily overcome the so-called “culture shock”. Here are some tips to help you get over the cultural differences, while enjoying yourself.
Learn the language of the host country
Understanding the language(s) of the country will help you to communicate with the locals or any other person living in the host country. This will make your daily life much easier, and at the same time eliminate any worries about misunderstandings. It also helps to reduce your stress level. When you are able to interact with the locals, culture shock becomes almost non-existent.
Respect the various local practices
If you are arriving in a new country, it is imperative that you show respect for its culture, people and beliefs. This respect is the key to adapting and integrating into the foreign environment. Accept the cultural values and practices, the eating habits, the ways of thinking without judging or antagonising the locals. Its different aspects represent the habits and customs of the country you are staying in, so you will have no choice but to conform to them. For this reason, it is recommended that you immerse yourself in the social life of the country, and do not remain solely among expatriates.
Keeping in touch with family and friends
In order not to feel completely isolated, contact with those close to you should be a priority. This will allow you to share all your experiences with them even if they will not be able to understand you completely; they will at least see your transformation through your experience. Do not hesitate to talk about your experience with locals or other expatriates.
