24 July 2012
A few things on my mind today in regard to culture shock and living in another country. When you go to a different country that speaks a different language or is a very different culture than your home raising you are so displaced that it can feel as though you've lost proficient skills or everyday abilities that you are used to at home.
Immersed in Chinese language learning, my native English speaking ability felt faultered because I was unable to communicate and much less talk to anyone in English. For businesses this is the big consideration as to whether it is worth the cost to send an expat overseas and wait for them to adjust while knowing comprimised work performance, or find a native qualifier.
Finding yourself in a whole new place develops problem solving skills. When there is nothing but unfamiliar surrounding you it is time to figure out which direction you go, what resources do you seek and what do you need to do first that might make everything else easier. It is a true test of how well you can fare as an individual given unknown direction or materials to work with.
I am now back from my travels to China and South Korea and coming off my jet lag after a full week of abnormal sleep and an upside down appetite.
My writings will continue in my everyday blog nikosense.blogspot.com
