How to preserve your culture after moving to another country

Moving to a new culture that is different from your own can be a very challenging undertaking. When a new country becomes your home, a period of cultural adjustment is a natural step to follow. However, it’s important to remember how to preserve culture after moving too.

After moving to another country, you will encounter a different language, religion, political background, customs, and generally a different way of life. All of these situations might make this process seem even more difficult than it really is.

To adjust to your new community, you will need to become familiar with some of the most important aspects of the new culture. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to give up on your tradition. Keep in mind that accepting and adapting to the new environment and culture doesn’t mean that you will have to let go of your old culture and customs. However, at some point, those two different cultural concepts will collide. At this time you are likely to experience culture shock and go through all its stages. Remain calm confronting the change, because you can alleviate the effects of the culture shock. All you need to do is get prepared for the big move long before the moving day occurs.

For sure, you will wonder how you are going to perceive the new surroundings. Another question that will pop up is: “How long it will take for me to adjust to the new culture”. The good news is that this depends on your mindset and personal attitude. Be kind to yourself and keep in mind that confusion, stress, and disorientation are usually associated with the culture shock. It comes as no surprise that everyone moving to another city or country will experience it at some point.

Whether you are moving to another country or to another city within the same country, you are likely to feel the effects of change. This can happen in a more or less intense manner, depending on your personality. You might be used to often change of scenery, or a new residence can be just what you were searching for. The new culture is an exciting experience. To make the most out of it, you should know what to expect and how to deal with possible obstacles and inconveniences. Remember that culture shock can affect people differently. Each person can have his/her own set of reactions to the new circumstances.

Keep on reading to get some tips and tricks for maintaining your culture when moving to another country.

Tips and trick for maintaining your culture when moving abroad

Whether you are moving to another country or to another city within the same country, you are likely to feel the effects of change in a more or less intense manner, depending on your personality. No matter how exciting experiencing a new culture is, you should know what to expect and how to deal with possible obstacles and inconveniences. Remember that culture shock can affect people differently and each person can have his/her own set of reactions to the new circumstances.

Make your new place feel warm

To feel comfortable as soon as possible, add some charm and character of your previous home. Recreate your old home’s familiarity to get cozy and safe. You can do by using photos of pleasant memories and photos of your loved ones. Display special gifts and valuables reminding you of your old home, neighborhood, family, and close friends. If art is what makes your home feel welcomed, go ahead and make it a priority when unpacking.

Keep in touch

Keeping your old contacts in the new country is something you should always live by. Being in touch with people from your old city can help you stay connected with your roots. Call or text people close to you and let them know how you are doing. Stay updated on their life events. Sometimes, in moments of crisis, all it takes to calm down is the sound of a friendly voice. By staying connected, you can create a balance between your old and new cultures.

How to preserve culture after moving? Keep some family traditions

If some cultural rituals are important to you, keep them unchanged. Maintaining your old culture will give you a sense of security. It will also make you feel connected to your roots. While doing so, try to be open-minded as far as local tradition is concerned. Embracing certain aspects of a new culture can be beneficial, and might be a new way to perceive the world. If you have kids, it can make you a good role model in terms of accepting different social and cultural tendencies.

Become a member of a local social club as a way of preserving culture after moving

Get out and about, and meet people who are connected to your original culture. Perhaps you decide to get connected to those with similar life experiences. Socializing with people who have also moved to a foreign country will help you meet like-minded individuals. You can share challenges and become a support to each other. By sharing experience, you can overcome the culture shock and adapt to the new environment more efficiently. Also, attending events hosted by your community can bring people together and help you go through this transition.

Develop new friendships

Stay proud about your origins, and spread the word about your country and culture. Some of your new neighbors or coworkers would like to get to know you better and understand your situation. Get friendly and share with them the most amazing details about your culture and tradition. Remember to ask them the same, and learn about their customs and history. Discovering a different country is always fun and it will help you make new friends.

Contact local institutions

Check out companies that are looking for foreign professionals. Offer your services, and you are in for a new exciting ride. To feel like a part of the new community, you can volunteer for a local organization or club. This is a great way to meet a lot of new different people. They will appreciate your contribution and involvement in community development.

Now that you have a few tips to begin with, go out and make your new home feel indeed yours. Moving to a new country definitely takes some time to adjust. However, changing culture is a great way to expand your horizon and make a fresh start. You get to meet new people, make a new home, and see another side of the world. Remember to be patient with your process of adapting, and have fun with the new experience.

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