10 Steps to Completely Changing Your Personality

Have you ever wished you were someone else? Do you enjoy the excruciating bewilderment of not knowing how to interact with your environment? If you said yes, then immigration is the option for you! Below are ten quick tips to keep in mind when immigration – don’t worry, you’re already on your way to discovering a whole new you!

I. Everyone around you will see things differently to how you’re used to. None of your jokes will be funny and you’ll gasp uncomfortably at the things your new countrymen find hilarious.

II. Don’t touch anyone or anything until you’ve seen a local do it. It might be okay in your country to pat a child on the head, but in an Islamic country, this is the equivalent of stepping on a small puppy. Don’t do it.

III. People around you will either seem painfully indecisive or hazardously impetuous. Your feelings of confidence and direction will never be the same as you navigate the unspoken rules of decision-making in your new country.

IV. A 9 0’clock meeting may start at 8:45 or 11:22, depending on your new local time. It is a dreadful faux pas to be either too early or too late and you will likely be irritated either way, especially if you are trying to cater for the event.

V. Don’t worry if businessmen start standing so close you’re sure they can taste the sardines you had for breakfast; this is normal in some countries. Observe how closely others stand to one another and steer clear of individuals with terrible body odor.

VI. People never mean what they say. People always mean what they think you understand by the words they say. I might say, “Gosh, I feel cold,” but this could be a subtle hint that the air conditioning needs to be adjusted, or I could just be making small talk. Try to consider what the other person is implying, and if you can’t figure it out, ask someone.

VII. Body language is crucial. Imitate body language and learn to watch how others move and gesture. Some symbols and expressions will always mean the same things; learn how to use these appropriately.

VIII. People will not play by your rules. The words, “well, where I’m from...” are NEVER a justification for your actions. Enjoy sharing your culture and experience, but never expect that others will feel that same way you do about polite behavior or social mores.

IX. Learn the laws of the land. Obey them.

X. Don’t assume your new countrymen speak English. Don’t expect them to learn it.

Above all else, be patient with yourself. Immigration might be supremely easy for you, but this is not the normal situation. You’ll discover that you like things you never expected, and that some things really annoy you for no good reason. Find friends early who can help you transition into the new culture and accept that you will make mistakes. Hopefully, people will excuse your honest ignorance and come to understand more about their own culture through your eyes.

(Based loosely on my own experience and this article)