Coping with Reverse Culture Shock: Embracing Change and Rediscovering Home

I confess that I experience a significant form of culture shock whenever I return to the country of my birth, even before the pandemic. The streets in town centers are bustling with people moving rapidly. I have to remember that the vehicles keep to the left side of the road. The traffic is overwhelming, and new signs are cropping up frequently. Shop hours in small towns are so rigid, especially during good weather, that patrons often spill out onto the streets, leading to an overcrowded scene. Public house patrons, particularly on weekends, are often inebriated, and people seem to be eating or drinking all through the day.

Yet, despite these challenges, life in the countryside remains beautiful. The fields remain green, and villages still exude charm. People are generally helpful, and there are those who still stop for tea. This article explores the complexities and nuances of reverse culture shock and how to navigate these challenges.

Experiencing Reverse Culture Shock

During my two-year stint in England, Wales, and Cornwall, I vividly recall an incident at an American fast food restaurant. I ordered chips and a hamburger, but the server brought crisps and brought me a total of 3.77. Initially, I was confused and couldn’t figure out the change: I wanted to give 50p, 20p, 5p, 2p, but the total was 3.77. She kindly provided the change, taking out three 25p coins and two pennies. This small yet significant difference highlighted the cultural disparity between my birthplace and the United Kingdom.

Returning home, I was crossing the street in a new townscape. Despite practicing driving and crossing streets on the plane before getting home, the experience was still daunting. I had to remind myself to look straight ahead and ensure that the traffic was clear. I heard a car approaching on the left and nearly got hit. This incident, although brief, underscores the challenges of re-adapting to familiar yet subtly different environments.

Understanding Reverse Culture Shock

My reverse culture shock experience, like any culture shock, is a compilation of small, incremental changes that collectively altered my perception of home. Over time, I no longer felt at home in my home country. The only people who truly understood the magnitude of these changes were those who had experienced similar situations. As a result, I decided to leave my home country and eventually became a citizen of another nation. In this new environment, at least I feel like a foreigner.

Reconnecting with the Local Culture

Navigating reverse culture shock involves reconnection with the local culture. It's essential to embrace the differences rather than resisting them. Engaging in local customs, traditions, and social norms can help one feel more at home. Attending local events, joining community groups, and trying local cuisine are great ways to immerse oneself in the local culture.

Finding support from like-minded individuals is crucial. Joining expat groups or online communities can provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding. Sharing experiences and tips with others who have faced similar challenges can help navigate the challenges of re-adapting to a familiar yet different environment.

Practical Tips for Managing Reverse Culture Shock

Here are some practical tips to manage reverse culture shock effectively:

Stay informed: Keep up with local news and events to stay connected with the local culture. Set realistic expectations: Understand that it will take time to adapt to the new environment and be patient with the process. Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or join local communities for emotional and practical support. Try new things: Embrace new experiences and be open to learning from the local way of life. Reflect regularly: Keep a journal or express your thoughts and feelings to help process the changes.

Conclusion

Reverse culture shock can be daunting, but it is also an opportunity for personal growth and cultural exploration. Embracing the differences, finding support, and setting realistic expectations can make the transition smoother. Remember that feeling like a foreigner is part of the process, and every step taken towards re-adapting is a step towards a richer, more fulfilling experience in your place of birth or chosen home.