Cross-Cultural Living
Ready yourself for your Cross-Cultural Experience
Your job might take you to places you could have never imagined going to. It sounds like paradise. Walking on sandy beaches of the South Seas. Hiking between the vulcanos of the Andes Mountains. We have been there. - But then reality sets in. People do things differently. They talk differently. They have different expectations and values.
Preparing for this kind of unknown cannot be left to chance. Team with us as you prepare for your journey. We will gladly share our experiences with you -and our screw-ups- and let you in on a few secrets about cross-cultural experiences.
Cross-Cultural Tips
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Life-long learner
The best tip we can give you regarding cross-cultural experiences is to maintain a learning attitude. Believe us, just when you think you figured out the culture you will find another nuance that totally surprises you. This is challenging, but to be honest - one of the coolest experiences even when you allow it.
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The Language is the key
If you want to go beyond surface discoveries, learn the language. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Just be willing to learn. People in every country will smile when they see you make an effort. You will not only have found the key to their hearts but eventually understand the culture in a much deeper way.
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Eat it !
Yes, we just said what you probably dread and look forward to at the same time. There will be food that you will really look forward to. And then there is food that you don’t even know what it is. Be brave. Try it. Just by trying it you will earn the hearts of the people and you might just discover your next favorite dish.
Sample the topic of …
Attitude of learning a language
Learning a new language is daunting and requires dedication and practice. However, another element must be present when learning a language: the right attitude. Take 7 minutes to see what attitude might make your language learning just a little bit easier.
Re-Entry.
The challenge of coming back “home”
You have seen the world. And it has become your HOME. But now you have to face the reality. It is time to really come home. The reasons might be various, the challenge is all the same. It is never easy to move, it is even harder when you know that you will most likely never be able to go back and visit the place you learned to love. We know.
But this doesn't mean it can’t work. Let us in on your travel plans. Let us help you organize your re-entry, even before you pack your suitcases. Or if you are already “home”, you might feel the need to talk. So let’s talk.
Missionary Hangout
This group aims to provide a platform for connection, encouragement, prayer, and tools to the worldwide community of missionaries - of any denomination or background. You can share prayer requests or praises. Share Bible verses and respond to them with your thoughts. Share tools and reviews of tools such as LOGOS Bible Software. And much more. Join the group here
Services I offer
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Every culture is different. But you can learn a few tools that will help you become aware of your surroundings and get acquainted with the ins and outs of your new home.
Cultural awareness is key to a successful stay in your targeted destination.
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Leadership is challenging, no matter the culture you live in. But add to the regular challenges the multiple ways you can screw up and create a problem. Let us help you avoid these social blunders. Let us teach you a thing or two about cross-cultural leadership.
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In today’s world, it is so easy to stay connected. Use this to your advantage! We can come alongside you and accompany you for some time, being a sounding board while you get settled in the new culture.
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Depending on where you go you might have to learn a new language. Now, we don’t claim to know all the languages, but we did learn a few. Let us help you with some tips and tricks for your journey.
And not just in the language-learning realm. Communication is key to any interaction. Cross-Cultural communication must be learned just as much as you learn a language. One might even argue that it is even more important.
You might speak the same language, but communication is different. Just go visit a community other than your own and you will see what we are talking about.