Have you ever moved to a new country and felt completely out of place? Maybe you’ve been living abroad for a while, but certain aspects of the culture still don’t make sense. Or perhaps you’re preparing for a big move and wondering how to overcome culture shock before it even happens.
If so, you’re not alone. Many expats, travelers, and immigrants go through culture shock, and it’s a completely normal part of adjusting to life in a foreign country. The good news? You can adapt faster, minimize discomfort, and start feeling at home more quickly with a few key strategies.
What is Culture Shock?
Before we dive into solutions, let’s first answer: What is culture shock?
Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation, confusion, or even frustration when experiencing a new culture that differs significantly from your own. It can manifest in many ways, such as:
- Struggling to understand local customs and traditions
- Feeling isolated or homesick
- Experiencing reverse culture shock when returning home
- Frustration with social norms, bureaucracy, or language barriers
Here’s an example of culture shock in America that often surprises foreigners:
In the U.S., people often say, “Hi, how are you?” as a greeting—but they’re not actually expecting a detailed answer. It’s just another way of saying hello, and this can confuse newcomers who take the question literally.
When I first moved to the Netherlands, I experienced my own culture shock moments—some of which I shared in this post: 6 Things That Gave Me Culture Shock in the Netherlands.
And if you’re more of a visual learner, check out my related YouTube video where I talk about my personal experiences with culture shock: 🎥 Watch here.
How to Overcome Culture Shock: Proven Strategies
Now that we know what culture shock is, let’s talk about how to overcome culture shock and adjust to a new country faster.
1. Develop a Thick Skin
You’re in a new country. Things will be different. People may act in ways that seem rude or unwelcoming simply because their culture has different social norms. Instead of taking things personally, try to approach situations with curiosity instead of frustration.
Example: If customer service feels colder than what you’re used to, remember that in some cultures, efficiency is valued over small talk. Instead of expecting warm smiles and chit-chat, understand that the service isn’t personal—it’s just cultural.
2. Be Open-Minded and Adaptable
One of the biggest mistakes expats make is resisting the local way of life. It’s easy to compare everything to “back home” and assume your way is better—but that mindset slows down your adaptation process.
- Try new foods, embrace local traditions, and step outside your comfort zone.
- Learn basic phrases in the local language—even if everyone speaks English.
- Avoid complaining too much about differences—instead, see them as learning opportunities.
3. Make an Effort to Meet People
One of the fastest ways to feel at home in a new country is by making friends with locals and fellow expats. If you only spend time with people from your home country, you’ll miss out on opportunities to truly understand the new culture.
How to make friends abroad:
Say yes to invitations—even if it’s outside your comfort zone
Join local clubs, sports teams, or hobby groups
Attend language exchange meetups
Go to networking events, expat gatherings, or cultural festivals
Pro Tip: If you’re introverted, start by using apps like Meetup, Bumble BFF, or Internations to connect with people who share your interests.
4. Visit the Country Before Moving (If Possible)
If you’re planning a big move and have the chance, visit your future country beforehand. Spending just a few weeks there can give you a realistic feel for daily life beyond the tourist experience.
When you visit:
Stay in a local neighborhood instead of a hotel
Try to live like a local—use public transport, grocery shop, and observe daily routines
Explore different areas to decide where you’d actually like to live
Reality Check: Living somewhere is 100x different from vacationing there. Many people fall in love with a place as a tourist, only to struggle when they actually move. That’s why experiencing local life firsthand can help manage your expectations.
5. Establish a Routine to Feel More Grounded
When everything around you is new and unfamiliar, having a consistent daily routine can help create a sense of normalcy.
Stick to a morning routine (exercise, coffee, journaling—whatever makes you feel centered).
Find your favorite local spots (a go-to café, park, or gym).
Establish work and leisure routines to bring stability to your new life.
How Long Does Culture Shock Last?
Culture shock usually happens in stages:
- The Honeymoon Phase: Everything is exciting, and you love discovering new places and customs.
- The Frustration Phase: The excitement wears off, and you start feeling homesick or irritated by cultural differences.
- The Adjustment Phase: You begin adapting, learning the local ways, and building a sense of normalcy.
- The Acceptance Phase: You finally feel comfortable and integrated into the new culture.
Most people go through this process in a few months, but it can take a year or more, depending on your adaptability.
Embrace the Journey!
Culture shock can be frustrating, but it’s also a powerful opportunity for personal growth. Instead of resisting change, lean into it—explore, learn, and open yourself to new experiences.
What has been your biggest culture shock moment while traveling or living abroad? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your experiences! 👇
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to check out my YouTube video for more insights: 🎥 Watch it here.
