One thing I definitely had to adjust to while studying abroad in Spain was how a normal day was scheduled. Breakfast was around the same time as what I was used to, but lunch was later and more time was spent eating, and then there was a period of time set aside for siesta. I never had class after 3 pm and most businesses closed around that time. Dinner was later, and nights out also started and ended later. This was definitely new to me, and required me to make adjustments.
Even though this was new to me, I honestly prefer it over what I’m used to back home. I felt like life moved slower in Spain, but in such a good way. I still woke up at a normal time for classes, but then come lunchtime I took time to cook with my host mom and enjoy a long meal together. Or if I went out to lunch it would take around 2 hours of me just eating and talking a while with whoever I was eating with. There was no rush, especially since places were closing for siesta anyways. It was also nice how class ended at that time. I know not everyone in Spain participates in siesta, but my host mom did, so it gave me an opportunity to try it; and on days that I didn’t, I would spend time journaling or taking walks around the city, just enjoying my time. Overall this type of day was really beneficial to my mental health. It also impacted my appreciation of time and the little things. When you’re not in a rush all the time you appreciate things that you normally wouldn’t even notice. I hope to incorporate as much as I can of what I experienced into my life back home.
Someone from my host culture would likely be aware of the difference in life in Spain compared to the US where fast-paced living is the norm; they would likely not be surprised that I found myself making adjustments. I would think they’d view my experience positively because I was really able to embrace it and adapt without any issues; I’m sure there are some individuals out there who may not be as accepting of or willing to adapt to these changes.
This experience has prepared me in my response to cultural misunderstandings or conflicts by first highlighting the importance of awareness. It’s most helpful to prevent misunderstandings or conflicts by taking time to look into cultural norms that may be different from your own. By being aware of differences, you won’t have a sense of shock when you experience them firsthand. This prevents accidental negative behavior that may accompany culture shocks. I was well aware of the timing differences in Spain compared to the US, so I came into it with a rough idea of how I would need to adapt; as a result it was a very smooth transition for me. Knowing about other cultural differences in Spain ahead of time allowed for similar results in my ability to adapt.