Browsing All Posts filed under »Cultural Differences«

The Impact of Perception on Relocating

February 22, 2010

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Since January, I’ve been learning about Buddhist teachings, and last week we had an excellent lesson that I thought could easily apply to anyone feeling the stresses and challenges of relocation. Though this post may be a little hokey, I do hope that, at the very least, it inspires you to realize how much power… [Read more…]

Lessons on Relocation from “Avatar”

February 2, 2010

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By now, hopefully you’ve had a chance to see the film “Avatar” at least once.  (I’ve seen it twice – once in IMAX 3D, incredible!) I realized that this was the ultimate relocation experience – both physically and mentally.  So, I thought it would be interesting to analyze the film from this perspective. When we’re… [Read more…]

Relocation and Sports – Can You Live Without?

January 26, 2010

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A few days ago, I found and posted an interesting article on Twitter and Facebook, about an expat in Abu Dhabi who’s biggest hardship is missing his NFL! Click here for the full article – http://bit.ly/8I0JaF. While humorous, this raises a great point.  When you relocate, you may be faced with the inability to see your… [Read more…]

Lessons About Communication, Language and Culture Learned From a Herd of Mustangs – Part 2

January 23, 2010

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In my last post, I told you about my adventure meeting and spending time with Mustang horses in Utah.  This is part 2 of my experience - After getting comfortable in the energy and presence of a pack of Mustangs, I headed off to another horse for leadership training!  This part was a test for… [Read more…]

Lessons on Language and Culture From a Herd of Mustangs – Part 1

January 20, 2010

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I’m just back from a fantastic retreat to Utah.  One of the things I did while there was an activity called “Meet the Mustangs”.  It is one of the most meaningful and fulfilling activities I’ve ever done in my life.  I learned far more than I ever expected to – about myself, and about language,… [Read more…]

Cultural Communities – the Good and the Bad

January 17, 2010

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One of the ways to integrate to a new culture, or to reconnect with one after you’ve repatriated, is to become part of a community in your local city.  I recently got to know some French friends who invited me to join them as they cheered on Marseille this afternoon, playing soccer against Lille. It’s been a… [Read more…]

Gain Some Insight in Nature – My Meditation Retreat, Part Two – The Hike From Hell, and Back!

January 11, 2010

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Another way to take care of yourself during hard times, or take a break from a rut is to walk in nature.  Whether that’s a park, or something other, the point is to step into it. I’d suggest brining a journal with you as you never know what epiphanies you’ll have and you won’t want… [Read more…]

Homesick or in a Rut? Try a Retreat!

January 7, 2010

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I’m in the middle of a two-part vacation, and thought I’d share my experiences with you. One of the things I advocate after you relocate, especially if you’re feeling depressed, or homesick, is to take care of yourself in a meaningful way. I treated myself to a partially silent meditation retreat at Kadampa Buddhist center… [Read more…]

Expats and Questionable Business Practices – Are You Prepared?

January 4, 2010

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Expats will always face cultural differences, but have you considered what it would be like if you moved someplace where corruptive business practices were considered normal or acceptable? Click here to read a very interesting article suggesting that HR professionals need to prepare expats for questionable business practices depending on the assignment.

The Doctor’s Office – Waiting Sucks

December 10, 2009

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I’d love to hear your comments on this post, especially from expats and people outside the US.  (Though I welcome feedback from anyone here, too!)  What kind of experience do you have at the doctor’s office?  From what I can tell, it seems a typical American experience to wait one heck of a long time to… [Read more…]

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