How to thrive as a TEFL teacher
How to survive and thrive in a new culture
“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” – Stephen R. Covey
TEACHME TEFL
Many English teachers were born and raised in Western countries. Often this means we have little to no exposure to the large variety of cultures around the world.
If you have been travelling this has no doubt opened your eyes to the wider world, but travelling and living in a foreign country are two very different things.
However, many English teachers are thriving in foreign countries. Here are a few tips to help you not just survive but thrive.
Laugh it off
There will always be crazy adventures, bizarre moments and stories no one will believe if they weren’t there. This is life overseas! When you are faced with difficulties, language barriers or cultural differences the best way to combat these is with laughter.
Try to see the funny side of what is happening this will help you to enjoy the moments and not take yourself too seriously.
Don’t forget that you are the foreigner, the way things are done in your new country, is the way things may have been done for centuries maybe even millenniums, so just go with it
Laugh if off
Learn the language
Embrace the culture
Delight in the food
Learn the language
Yes, you are teaching English and in the majority of countries you will find a network of people who also speak English. With this being said, you will feel much more comfortable if you learn the language of the country.
It takes time to become fluent but don’t be discouraged, with just a handful of words you will be able to start to enjoy the benefits of knowing the language.
Start with learning how to say the basic questions you would ask on a daily basis such as:
How much is this?
I would like…
Where is…?
I don’t understand – This is a very important phrase and also how to ask them to repeat the sentence again but slower
A great way to improve your language is by asking for help from locals, ask your grocer, your butcher, your baker, get them to help you with the names of the items you are buying, they will love to help and they may even throw in a discount here and there.
As you learn the language you will also start to understand the culture.
Embrace the culture
This is the most exciting part of a foreign country, we can learn so much from other cultures. The best way to learn is by being observant, watch what is happening around you. Try to do as the locals do.
For example in Spain, most businesses close for siesta between the hours of 12 and 3pm, why not do the same. Take a break in the middle of your day and do as the Spanish do.
Being aware of this will also mean you don’t try to go shopping or arrange a business meeting at these times.
Even introductions and meeting new people can be a culture shock in many places.
In Japan, often the second question after your name is your age. As westerners we rarely ask an adult their age, let alone a stranger.
However this is culturally acceptable in Japan. Japanese culture is built on respect for their elders, by asking your age they are actually looking to offer you the respect you are due.
Also colours have a lot of meaning in some cultures, like in China. As a teacher, often you will use red to mark your students work.
However using red is considered a threat to the students, traditionally the names of the dead were written in red ink, so it is highly offensive to write a students name in red pen.
When you are aware of the cultural norms of the country you are in, you will not only feel more at home but will also gain the respect of the locals.
Food
This must be one of the best aspects of being in a new place, new flavours and tastes. However, even simple activities like shopping for groceries is an adventure in a foreign country. It is often more expensive and harder to find the items that you are used to.
Instead of shopping like a foreigner try to shop as the locals do. Visit the local markets, ask where your local friends shop, they may even be willing to take you to the shops.
Instead of eating in the same way you did back home, try to eat like the locals, buy and make food that is popular in your new country. This will not only save you money but the locals will also appreciate your love of their food.
Bear in mind that local food, prepared by locals may not always be prepared to the same hygiene standards we are used to.
Also in some countries it is not advisable to drink the water, therefore any fresh vegetables or fruits washed in this water may pose a problem.
A good way to avoid this is by trying to only eat items that have been cooked at a high temperature. If possible ask for the items to be cooked fresh, if you are on the street you may even be able to see your food be cooked in front of you. If you aren’t sure, ask others if they have eaten from the place and their experience.
With these few simple tips you will no doubt enjoy your new life in your new country.
To be able to travel and teach, you will need your 120hr TEFL Certificate, click the link below to start your course today.