Cross-Cultural Training

Lesson 7: Culture Shock

Methods of dealing with culture shock

1) Know that it is a normal part of adjusting to a new culture and that others are or have experienced it too.

2) Learn the language. Being fluent will take time and practice, but you’ll never get there if you don’t start. Don’t be ashamed to cary a dictionary around with you. If people know you are trying it’s amazing how helpful they can be.

3) Join the gym, an organization, or take classes. All of these things will force you to get out of the house and interact with others. Plus if you are used to being in shape then getting sluggish will just add to your depression.

4) Be realistic. You aren’t going to conquer a new culture in a day. And even once you think you’ve overcome your culture shock, you’ll still have your bad days. But didn’t that even happen at home?

5) Become a regular and learn key people who can help. If your grocer or a certain clerk at the post office knows you, it’s likely that he/she will give you helpful hints and help you with the language as well. They will be proud when you start speaking to them in their native tongue.

6) Learn as much about the culture before you go as you can. Do you know people from the place you are going or people who have spent time there in the past? Listen to their stories. Ask questions. And don't doubt their experiences. Don't think "Well that may have happened to you, but it won't happen to me" because chances are, it will.

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