How to Deal With Culture Shock on Mission Trips
Whether taking a mission trip in your own country or beyond your borders, you will experience cultural customs unlike your own. Entering a new culture can be confusing and cause unexpected anxiety. Following these steps will help you deal with culture shock and strongly enhance your ability to serve effectively.
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Instructions
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Prepare, prepare, prepare. Learn all you can about the culture of the locale you plan to serve. Read books, research on the Internet and talk to people from that place. The more you know in advance, the better equipped you will be to deal with culture shock.
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Respect the differences. Even with advance preparation, you will probably encounter differences you did not expect. The more respect you give local residents, the more respect you will receive.
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Journal your thoughts. As you assimilate into the culture, journaling gives you a healthy way to express your feelings. It may also provide encouragement in the future as you look back and see how far you have come.
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Build a support network. You can't deal with culture shock alone. Find other people--from home and locally--who support your mission trip. They want to see you succeed and will help you navigate your new environment.
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Adapt by remaining open to learning. Ask questions about cultural issues you don't understand. Locals will respond positively if you express interest without judgment.
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Tips & Warnings
• Don't criticize cultural difference as "out of touch" or "behind the times." You will sound arrogant. • Avoid withdrawing from the culture. You will miss great opportunities to serve, and will begin to feel more isolated. • Never refer to local residents as nationals or "natives." You will offend their sense of dignity.
