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Are you moving to a new country? Here are the things to do to avoid culture shock

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Relocating to another country can at times be stressful as you will be in a new culture. The effect of being cut off from familiar culture, environment and norms, and having to acclimatize to new and seemingly strange surroundings can cause stress, frustration, confusion and even depression. All that together is what is known as culture shock.

Culture shock is like the measles; it takes a while to incubate. During the first weeks and months, one goes through a honeymoon stage. The people are so friendly, so helpful. The scenery is so breath-taking. The differences that are noticed are usually of a very superficial level and tend only to make things more exotic and exciting.

Then the new wears off. People get tired of carting you around. They get tired of intervening for you and shielding you. It begins to dawn on you just how different things really are and that you are on your own. The language turns out to be more difficult than you had expected. You are gently introduced to some of the blunders you have already made and you feel like someone just let all the air out of all four of your tires. Suddenly the honeymoon is over and the world of reality comes crashing down around you.

Although culture shock is uncomfortable, it is a normal part of the adjustment process and you need not be ashamed of it.

Some good ways to successfully minimize and overcome culture shock are to read about the place where you will be staying and the things you will be doing, also, if possible, speak with someone already living in the new environment.

Once you are there, keep in mind that people and customs may be very different from what you are used to. Having realistic expectations and realizing that difficulties and misunderstandings may occur will help you keep a cool head when they do, and keeping an open mind will allow you to find solutions to those problems that may arise.

When possible interact with the local population. Don't succumb to the temptation to isolate yourself, even if it is within a group of foreigners. Locals will generally be pleased to introduce you to their culture and willing to answer questions. Don't be afraid of making mistakes. When you are eager to learn people are usually more than willing to meet you half-way and learn from you in turn.

Find ways to keep in touch with family and friends at home. Since we are in the digital era, chat with them via social media like Facebook, Instagram, and skype and so on.

Language is an important component of culture and also has a great influence in adapting to a new culture. Develop a great interest in learning the local language. You are likely to increase your aptitude in the local language by interacting with the locals and by watching and listening to TV and Radio programs in the local language. Some people argue that anyone who learns a foreign language will go to Heaven because they have become a child and Jesus promised the kingdom to little children and to those willing to be like them. Language learning and cultural adaptation is basically becoming a child again. Make mistakes in the pronunciations, laugh at yourself and learn. That is the best way to learn a foreign language.

Remember, even the most hardened and well-travelled business people experience culture shock. It is a normal and natural reaction to new and strange surroundings. With time it will be get better and you will look back on your international experience as a very positive one that has enhanced your professional and personal life.

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