How I learned to appreciate cultural differences while living abroad

Imagine landing in a country where you don't speak the language, don't fully understand the customs, and yet, it's now your home!

That's exactly where I found myself in my early 20s when I moved to Korea. The experience challenged me in ways I never expected, but opened my eyes to the beauty of cultural diversity.

You might want to move abroad for many reasons:

• work

• study

• adventure

• romance

• personal growth

You might want to seek new experiences, find your roots or identities, or challenge yourself outside your comfort zone!

Whatever your reason is, going abroad can open your mind to different ways of living and thinking!

My first few days in Korea were filled with excitement and fun!

But then...about 2 weeks later, I was suddenly overwhelmed.

I was hit by the realization that I couldn't quite understand the language or the local customs and that I was far, far, far away from home.

Even things like ordering pizza, buying groceries, or saying hello to people seemed almost impossible!

This is called culture shock.

Don't worry, it's super normal to feel confused and disoriented when experiencing a new culture for the first time!

Ways to Deal with Culture Shock:

• Stay open-minded: accept that things will be different.

• Ask questions: don't be afraid to ask for help or learn from the locals.

• Find support: connect with other expats or locals.

• Be patient: give yourself some grace!

It's okay to struggle a bit at times. Living abroad isn't easy, and you're very brave!

I struggled a lot in my first 6 months abroad.

Slowly but surely, I realized that patience and open-mindedness are my best friends!

I started to embrace some of the differences instead of resisting them and found plenty of aspects that I loved in my new environment.

Photo by Eszter Vida on Unsplash

I tried traditional Korean arts, explored the local food scene, and made some great friends along the way.

I learned to ask questions and make careful observations, and these experiences helped me gain a deeper appreciation for other cultures.

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.

— author Neale Donald Walsch

At one point in your time abroad, you will come to face another big question:

What's next?

You might ask yourself:

• Should I stay longer?

• Should I stay forever?

• Should I leave earlier?

• Should I return home?

• Should I go somewhere else?

Some people might want to experience the thrill of starting over in another country, while others might decide to prioritize a stable life with their family.

I decided to move back home to Canada. As a teacher, I can support students from diverse backgrounds a lot better now!

Whatever you decide, the experiences and lifelong skills you've gained while living abroad will continue to help in all areas of life!

If you have the chance, take the leap, and go for the move abroad!

You'll gain open-mindedness, resilience, intercultural communication and language skills, cultural awareness, self-awareness, and more!

Starting today, you can...