There are several things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to becoming culturally sensitive to everyone around you. It is an important trait, especially if you are the kind of person who travels a lot or who meets various people for work. Keep in mind that your beliefs, practices, and culture may be different from those that you encounter. Because of this, there is a necessity on your part to become culturally sensitive wherever you go.
As much as the sea matters to the fish that call it home; as much as the earth matters to the roots that it nurtures. Our cultures—diverse and magnificent—color the way we experience the world and shed light on the wonder that is to be human. — Marianna Pogosyan Ph.D.
In this article, we are going to share some of the tips and tricks that you must remember if you want to avoid offending other people, particularly when it comes to their culture. Make sure to read the article from start to finish so that you can master the art of becoming culturally sensitive. Here are the top things to remember:
Educate Yourself
As much as possible, keep yourself updated with the latest information about the different cultures around you. Do not just rely on your personal knowledge or facts that you hear from other people. It is crucial to read and research on your own so that you can absorb the information easily. For example, if you are traveling to a new country soon, it is best if you will educate yourself about the practices and cultures of the people residing there. In so doing, you will not have a hard time connecting with them.
In mental health, as in other areas, interventions to promote cultural competency have often been focused on providing education about specific groups in an effort to avoid potential pitfalls. — Fabiana Franco, PhD
Avoid Being Too Proud
It can be exciting to share how proud you are of your own culture with everyone you meet. Such an act is a good thing since you are giving the other person an opportunity to get to know you. However, this becomes problematic if you will try to insist or impose your own set of beliefs on others. Keep in mind that you can still make friends with someone without being too proud of what you do or where you came from. Be respectful by thinking twice before you will open your mouth.
…there is evidence that the collectivist nature of East Asian cultures versus individualistic Western cultures affects both brain and behavior. East Asians tend to process information in a global manner whereas Westerners tend to focus on individual objects. —
Ask Questions
Is there something that is bothering you about the culture of the other person? Do you want to learn or find out more about the basis for his current beliefs and traditions? If yes, all you must do is to strike a conversation with the said person and ask questions. Do not hesitate to seek clarification about certain matters. Keep in mind that it is better to get direct information or explanation from him, instead of making unnecessary assumptions.
Conclusions
Being culturally sensitive means having the right attitude when it comes to dealing with people who have a different set of traditions, beliefs and values from you. Always remind yourself that you can still co-exist with the other person, as long as you know how to do the right things. Avoid making any prejudices against the other person, especially if you have recently met. It is best to get to know him first before you make any conclusions. Otherwise, you may commit a mistake or error.