Adapting To Life in the UK

Can culture shock be avoided altogether? Probably not. Can it be minimised? Yes, absolutely!

- The short list of any “Prescription for Culture Shock” would probably look like this:

1. Understand symptoms and recognise signs of "culture fatigue" and “culture shock”
2. Realise that some degree of discomfort and stress is natural in a cross-cultural experience.
3. Recognise that your reactions are often emotional and not always (or easily) subject to rational control.
4. Gather information so at least the cultural differences will seem understandable, if not natural. Look below the surface.
5. Look for the logical reasons behind host culture patterns.
6. Relax your grip on your normal culture and try to cheerfully adapt to new rules and roles.
7. Don't give in to the temptation to disparage what you do not like or understand.
8. Identify a support network among colleagues and make new friends.
9. Understand that any "cultural clash" will likely be temporary.