A few weeks ago, we discussed in my Meetup group further aspects of the topic “culture and perception” and I would like to add some points to the previous article („How does culture shape our perception of the world?“).
It was remarkable to see that almost everyone present had lived in different countries or lived in a country other than their country of origin. We realized: We all had to overcome similar challenges. A central theme was the balancing act between one’s own cultural identity and the adaptation to a new culture.
Identification with one’s own culture and identity crisis
Which culture do you belong to?
The question of belonging becomes particularly complex when we live in a different country/culture. It is natural for our identity to change over the course of our lives, but moving to another culture can accelerate this process and sometimes lead to an identity crisis. Some participants shared the concern of losing their original culture. But can we really lose our culture of origin?
Perhaps the following thought experiment could provide an answer:
Imagine you are a tree growing up in a certain place. If you are now transplanted to a location elsewhere, your roots are taken with you and not simply cut off. They are a vital part of you. Of course, you can grow new roots in the new place and you will probably change slightly due to the different conditions in the new place. You may grow a little more towards the sun or your blossoms may bloom in a different month. However, you will most likely not stay completely the same.
Cultural flexibility
During the discussion, we realized that we behave differently in different situations. Personally, I tend to be more reserved when I’m with other Germans. When I meet other nationalities and speak in English, I am more open, enthusiastic and lively. My communication also changes then. The more heart-based communication I experienced on a daily basis in Canada led me to use different words and speak more emotionally in English than in German.
But it’s not just about language and expression. We discovered that we can “change color” in different situations – like a chameleon. Because we understand in which context which side of our personality is best expressed. One participant described this as a superpower.
Intercultural competence as a superpower
It enables us to react flexibly to different cultural environments while remaining authentic. This ability not only enriches our personal lives, but is also invaluable in an increasingly globalized world.
Globalization and cultural diversity
Culture is not static, but constantly changing. In Germany, values have changed significantly in recent decades. The focus has shifted from pure “hard work” to a healthy work-life balance. We are in a transitional phase in which old and new values are clashing and causing friction. Studies show that material security has become less important as a value, while social tolerance and the acceptance of different lifestyles have become more important.
Globalization has led to a blending of different cultures through immigration and refugee movements. If the current change in values in Germany is already causing friction, then it is no wonder that adding values from other countries are creating even more friction.
Look on the bright side: we get the chance to get to know new perspectives and engage with different attitudes and mentalities.
Integration and inclusion
In Germany, people still talk about integration courses – in my opinion, the name says exactly what many people are upset about. A little refresher on the definitions of integration and inclusion? Here you go:
With integration, a certain group of people remain among themselves but are integrated into society.
Inclusion is about mixing groups of people. What happens in the process: People approach each other, make compromises, get to know each other, adapt flexibly to different encounters and develop new values and beliefs together.
This still does not mean that one’s own cultural background should be completely abandoned. Remember: a tree has roots and it could not grow without them.
Conclusion: Intercultural competence as a superpower
Globalization has given us the unique opportunity to choose between different cultures. Intercultural competence has become a key skill. It enables us to adapt to different people, traditions and values without losing our authenticity. This ability helps us to deal with change, makes our thinking more holistic and opens our eyes to alternative ways of life.
Ultimately, it is about learning from each other and seeing the diversity of cultures as an enrichment.