The Struggle Is Real: Overcoming Reverse Culture Shock
Now that your PWP Project is over, how is the adjustment back to “normal life” going so far? For many… Read more The Struggle Is Real: Overcoming Reverse Culture Shock
Now that your PWP Project is over, how is the adjustment back to “normal life” going so far? For many people, coming home after a short-term missions experience can be just as difficult as leaving in the first place. Friends and family are somehow different. The things you longed for while you were gone aren’t as wonderful as you remembered. You’ve changed, but people at home seem content doing all the same things as before. Any of this sounding familiar?
Integrating your experiences back into your “normal” life at home is just as important as taking the step to leave in the first place. Often times after an amazing cross-cultural experience like the one you’ve just had, people return home and, without even realizing it, can experience “reverse culture shock.” This phrase refers to a time of doubt, anger, and maybe even disgust of your own community upon reentry. Please remember that this is a normal reaction for many people. As you experience these initial feelings we want to challenge you to re-evaluate your lifestyle and allow others to witness a life that has been transformed.
3 SIGNS YOU MAY BE DEALING WITH REVERSE CULTURE SHOCK
- A judgmental attitude toward your home culture
- Lack of motivation or sense of loss
- Unmet expectations (in terms of how others at home respond to stories about your experience)
HOW TO MAKE THE ADJUSTMENT
- Find a mature Christian friend or someone in your local church who can help you process your experiences, provide guidance and prayer, and give insight into how you can apply what you’ve learned back home.
- Be a good steward of your mission experience. Recognize the grace God has given you in granting you this amazing experience as well as the spiritual growth and insights you’ve gained. Instead of judging others, ask yourself: What would God have you do now as a result of your short-term missions experience? Don’t let this just be a fun, fleeting summer break! Let it affect the way you live and see the world at home.
- Continue to grow in your understanding of missions from a biblical perspective. Trace the theme of God’s mission to reach the nations throughout the Old Testament and on into the New Testament. Study the life of Christ and how He touched people’s lives regardless of their cultural background. Read a missionary biography such as Eric Liddell, Amy Carmichael, or Jim Eliot or dive into a good missions book such as “ Let the Nations Be Glad ” by John Piper. Find out if there is a Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course taking place near you. Whatever resource you take hold of, create a foundation of biblical truth you can build your passion for the nations upon.
- Share your experience and challenge others who have a passion for the Gospel.
- Don’t wait for the next PWP Project! Start reaching out to those around you right now wherever you are.
Hopefully, your life will never be “normal” again as a result of this experience! If you find yourself dealing with reverse culture shock, reach out to someone who can help. Our SportQuest staff are available and would love to connect with you at any time.
