Culture shock. It’s real. I know because I’ve experienced it. If you are considering relocating to another country for work, as many Chiropractors do each year, read on.
When Marc and I moved to Spain years ago, everything was exotic and new at first. Marc was about to start as an associate in a busy practice on the Mediterranean coast. The first month, we rushed around 12 hours a day, renting a flat, buying furniture, and getting our children in nursery. It was after that first month that culture shock hit.
One day, we walked into a crowded café at lunchtime. It was noisy, and everyone was speaking Spanish at the top of their voices. A smell of fried fish and cigarettes filled the air. Suddenly, a wave of revolution overtook me. It hit me physically, and I had to grab the back of a chair to steady myself. I suddenly hated Spain with all my heart and wanted to immediately jump on a plan home.
What is culture shock?
Culture shock happens when we’re overwhelmed by unfamiliar behaviours, customs, and attitudes in a foreign country. We have no point of reference with what’s going on around us and don’t know how to respond. This uncertainty and confusion can lead to anxiety, sadness, feelings of helplessness, anger, and even outright hostility.
And yet, when you move overseas, it can be the most exciting and rewarding thing you will ever do. If you are considering such a move, here are some ideas to consider.
How to manage culture shock
Speak to docs from your home country who have made the leap.
What was their experience? The pros and cons? Learn as much as you possibly can about life in your chosen country. Does it still seem appealing?
Human beings around the planet all have the same spines, but chiropractic can be completely different from what you know in your home country. Find out about these differences. If you are considering a non-English speaking country, are you willing to learn a new language?
Be open-minded
Assuming you go ahead with your plan, and you take up a foreign associateship, be prepared to deal with culture shock at some point. Commit to sticking it out in the new country, no matter what. Give it at least a year before you even contemplate returning home. I’ve seen docs move halfway round the world and leave again within a couple of months.
They leave because their expectations were unrealistic, and they lacked fortitude. Don’t be like those Chiropractors. It’s important to keep an open mind in your new country. Remember, the customs and behaviours you are used to at home are not better than any other country – they are just different. All countries, including yours, have good and bad qualities.
Reach out
If there are expats from your home country, it’s a good idea to contact them. You can do this through social media. They will help you get adjusted to life in your new country and provide a sense of familiarity. Avoid anyone who is critical and judgemental of the local people. Exposure to negativity can only lead you down a bad path.
It's important to stay in contact with your family back home, but never call when you are feeling homesick. This would alarm your loved ones and may cause you to spiral into sadness. Call when you are happy and enjoying your life.
Little by little, you will begin to feel at home as you embrace your new life. My bout of culture shock, all those years ago, last about four months. I wept in private and asked myself over and over, “What have we done?” Eventually, we settled in. We built a successful practice, we started ChiroEurope, and began coaching hundreds of Chiropractors. Our children grew up, and none of us have ever considered going home. We are loving life, and we are here to stay.
- Lynn McAvenia
