Culture shock is a fairly common phenomenon that occurs during intercultural transitions. Usually, this might happen as a short-term feeling of disorientation that results from the unfamiliarity of surroundings in a new environment. Many experience this when either going abroad for the first time or when they first arrive in a new city.
If you find yourself feeling discomfort or anxiety upon arriving at your destination and don’t know how to deal with culture shock, don’t panic. It is completely normal and to be expected! Below are some tips that are likely to help you overcome this short-term phase and move on to enjoying your time abroad.
5 Ways to Overcome Culture Shock
Here are some of our best ways of coping with culture shock when traveling abroad, so you can maximize your experience!
1. Prepare Yourself for the Transition
While there is really only so much preparation you can do beforehand without actually being present in the new environment, it can help ease the transition. Being aware of different cultural norms and practices, such as eating patterns or where to stand on the escalator, can help make day-to-day transitions easier. Read as much as you can beforehand and talk to people you know who have visited the culture to get a firsthand experience of what to expect.
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2. Commit Yourself to Learning the Local Language
If you are going to a country that speaks another language, learning that language or at least having a basic understanding of it can help exponentially. Once you are there, make an effort to learn daily phrases that will help you to get around and communicate. Being able to make your way around and communicate with locals will help smooth the transition.
3. Make New Friends
You might not think it at first, but coping with culture shock starts with making new friends. We have proof of that! Have a look at our alumni stories to get even more familiar.
Oftentimes, locals in your new city will be happy to show you around or give you advice. Make an effort to talk with your new classmates, coworkers, or fellow volunteers and explore the city together. At World Endeavors, we’re committed to diversity. To make your experience even better, we believe in accommodating everyone, regardless of their abilities, identities, or backgrounds. Our advisors are dedicated to finding programs tailored to each individual’s unique needs and interests, ensuring an enriching experience for all. Seeing a friendly face is always a relief and will likely be the quickest way to overcome any anxiety you may be experiencing.
4. Participate in Cultural Events
Taking an active part in the new culture will expose you to cultural norms and customs. This could be anything from eating at an authentic restaurant, going to a family event of your host family’s, or attending a cultural event in your city. The more you familiarize yourself with the environment surrounding you, the more you will grow comfortable within it.
5. Be Patient
Lastly, patience is one of the best pieces of advice available for someone experiencing culture shock. If you begin to feel frustrated with the transition, don’t be too hard on yourself – everyone experiences it at some point. Be patient and make the most of your time abroad, it is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life!
Coping with Culture Shock Starts with You!
Experiencing culture shock is a natural part of traveling and adapting to a new environment. Remember, it’s a temporary phase, and with the right approach, you can overcome it and fully enjoy your time abroad. If you still have some questions you need answered, request a callback from our team. And we’ll make sure to get in touch with you.
With all the above steps that we’ve shared, you’ll learn some of the best remedies that support the process of coping with culture shock. So, take a deep breath, step out of your comfort zone, and immerse yourself in the adventure that awaits you. Safe travels!
