1. Adjusting to a changing cultural landscape
How many times have you said the words ‘in my culture….’? How much thought have you
given to these words and what does it really mean? Do you use it to convey a point to the
listener or use it to define who you are? Do you believe that there has to be a singular
definition of an individual’s culture or should this definition be fluid?
The questions surrounding culture are unlimited and the paths that these questions will lead
one to are varied, diverse and unlimited. Culture in itself is a construction of man, and is
used to demarcate the differences between groups of people, be it large or small groups, or a
whole country. Hence it will have numerous characterizations depending on the types of
group interactions; things that are reflective of a particular group, political beliefs, laws that
individuals within the group conforms to, customs that they follow, or traditions that has
been respected, enjoyed and performed for centuries. Each of our influences is different
depending on what we are attracted to, or interested in.
My definition of culture also includes two sub-sets. There is macro culture, which is shaped by
different conditions and elements common to all groups such as language and laws; therefore,
no single group has a leading influence. Secondly, there is the micro cultural environment,
which is influenced by the group that makes it up and they are the influencing factor.
A balancing act
When you live or dwell in a homogenous micro-cultural environment, it is somewhat less
complex. Each environmental change that occurs in our lives results in a change of our
personal roadmap and this in turn will influence our future self.
As a group, there are numerous reasons why we choose not to remain in one geographical
area; it can be economic, political or environmental. This journey is a continuous one, as
demonstrated from the beginning of time. One thing is certain, and that is, the culture that
we each hold true to ourselves, is very important. Complications arise when someone
migrates; however, forced migration brings in a new layer of complexity.
When we move, we are faced with the dilemma, as how not to become alienated or
separated from our own culture, as we adapt and integrate into a new culture.
There are numerous challenges as we move away from a culture that we have become
accustomed to. Adapting to a new culture in some way means that we are transforming our
identity. Within any culture, there will always be the part that we have inherited and the
other part that we will have to adapt to.
Adjusting
Culture evolves; some of the norms that guided us socially and professionally, and which
shaped our influences in one environment, may no longer be appropriate in a new
environment. We will have to adjust to a new reality and to new rules. Ideals that were once
acceptable may now be defined by new norms.

2. Our attachment to our culture can be impenetrable, such that we are unable to embrace
changes, especially when we have had no choice in the emigration process. Information and
Ideas around certain subjects will present conflicts, such as gender boundaries, may change.
Responses can be misinterpreted as this can be interpreted as not having the right
information or the person respondent not understanding the question that was asked.
Dealing with the cross-cultural boundary means having to overcome the culture shock and
then managing the anxiety that follows. Hurdles will present itself at almost every turn. It
will require overcoming conflicts that can arise due to differences in belief and value
structure. Values and beliefs that we once hold true, will become a source of frustration as
we try to adjust, and this in turn can test our resilience and try our patience.
Moving forward - Handling the cultural shift
What can you do to manage the transition now that you are in a new place? It is at this point
that critical thinking comes into play; there will be no easy answers, especially if you are
looking for an interpretation based on your feelings.
Critical thinking is difficult, and will require support from other resources to understand the
changes to make the transition easier. It will take time and patience to adapt to a new
reality.
In adapting to this new reality it is recommended to communicate with other acquaintances
and members of your socio-cultural group. This will help in gaining a perspective of the new
environment. This will also help in the acclimatization and the transition journey.
Inner conflict will lead many of the days. However, adjustment is a reality that will take
time.
Our cultural background shaped who we are today, and it will continue to shape our future.
We are the sum of our unique macro and micro societal experiences. We must celebrate
these very rich experiences, and yet at the same time, learn to embrace differences, and this
is what will guide the path forward.