So, you’ve decided to leave your country and live overseas. Maybe a new job has prompted the move or the lure of a semester abroad. You’ve made the necessary arrangements, packed your bags and secured your visas, but don’t forget to prepare YOURSELF for this monumental transition.
Just like an athlete trains to run a marathon, you will need to train yourself for a successful journey. Make no mistake, you have signed up for a journey, a pilgrimage, if you will. It will require your time, your energy and your focus. As one who has walked this “journey” before and has served as a guide to others along the path, may I offer a few words of advice?
Tip 5 - Do Your Research
When you come to a new culture you should come as a learner. Remember the words of Bill Nye, “Everyone you will ever meet know something you don't.” Take heed to what this new country has to teach you. Learn the language, the cultural norms and the proper etiquette in various social settings. Every expat needs this book: Kiss, Bow, Or Shake Hands: The Bestselling Guide to Doing Business in More than 60 Countries by Terri Morrison. It is intended for business professionals, but is a great resource for anyone living internationally.
Tip 4 - Learn to Communicate
Language is much more than grammar. It is a communication tool that reflects the way the culture views the world. Albert Mehrabian, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at UCLA, came up with the 7-38-55 rule of communication. He proposes that 7% of communication is words, 38% is tone and 55% is body language. People often make the mistake of focusing on words when they really need to learn how the culture communicates.
Tip 3 - Familiarize Yourself with the Culture
Develop a healthy sense of appreciation for the country you have decided to live in. Familiarize yourself with the lifestyle of the local people. Try the food, listen to music, watch movies, etc. The more comfortable you feel in your new home, the more successful your transition will be.
Tip 2 - Develop Emotional & Cultural Intelligence
Any long journey has the tendency to bring out the best and the worst of its travelers. An essential part of preparing for the transition abroad is learning to become more self-aware This is often referred to as Emotional Intelligence (EQ). If you can't manage yourself, then you can't manage your relationships with others. This skill coupled with cross-cultural knowledge allows you to become culturally intelligent. Cultural Intelligence (CQ) is the ability to effectively sort out the differences between personal dynamics, personality factors and cultural norms. EQ +CQ=HAPPY EXPAT
And speaking of happy, I saved the best for last.
Tip 1 - Don't Forget to Have Fun
The power of FUN cannot be underestimated! Cultivating the ability to laugh, to connect with others and to truly enjoy your new life in another country makes all the difference. So, go ahead and eat that éclair, go to that new place, talk to that stranger and start that new hobby. I promise, you won't regret it.
