Do This to Make Your Cross-Cultural Relationship Work Out

Dating is never easy, and making a relationship last is one of life’s greatest challenges. It’s two completely different people becoming one, and that is sure to bring conflicts in the relationship. If having a relationship with someone of the same nationality is hard, can you imagine being with someone who was raised in a country with different culture and traditions?

That’s right, it would be the definition of a relationship challenge.

However, there are some things you can take note of to make sure your relationship works out. They’re as follows:

1. Acknowledge your differences

The first step is acknowledging that you have differences. You can’t keep expecting your partner to constantly do what you expect them to do or be who you expect them to be. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that there are differences between you two as you are dating someone from a different culture.

2. Learn each other’s culture and history

Now you know that you guys have differences. Is that enough? No, it’s not. You need to understand as well. Learn about each other’s cultures and history. Understand why this is how your partner eats, reacts, and such. The more you know about each other’s culture, the better you will understand each other, and the less fights you’ll have over your differences.

3. Respect your differences

In every relationship, respect is paramount. The same goes for any cross-cultural relationship. While learning about your partner’s culture and traditions, you will find some that you don’t agree with. Respect them anyway. Just because you don’t believe in something doesn’t mean you get to invalidate it. This applies to every difference between you, including political views and religious beliefs.

4. Acknowledge what you have

Not all countries have the same economic growth. Some are more advanced than the others. Some nationalities get more privileges than others do. This is, unfortunately, the way of the world. If you happen to get more privileges because of your race, acknowledge them. When your partner makes an observation, don’t dismiss it. They’re not looking for sympathy; they’re just simply stating the reality.

5. Try to learn each other’s languages

One of the challenges in cross-cultural relationships is the language barrier. You’re lucky if your languages are almost the same, but if they’re totally not, find a way to work around it. You can choose to use English as that’s the international language. Just remember that if you do, find out which words have a negative sound to your partner and which words sound positive.

However, even when you’re both speaking English, it’s still good to learn your partner’s native language. After all, you are also expected to mingle with their family and friends.

6. Be willing to go the distance

Of course, your home countries would also be different, and you can’t expect your partner to permanently stay in your country. Even if that’s where you both decided to stay for good, there will still be times when your partner would want to visit home. Don’t make an issue about it. Be supportive and be willing to go with them.

7. “I moved here for you” – this is a big no-no

In case you’re the one who moved, don’t play that “I moved here for you” card every time you argue. Every decision a couple makes should be made by both of them. This one too. It’s a cheap shot, especially if the argument is not even that big to begin with.

8. Value yourself

Yes, you love your partner. Yes, you are willing to do things for them. However, don’t ever lose your value. The moment you do, you can’t expect others to give value to you. Be amenable, but assert your right as well. Respect yourself.

Conclusion

Being in a cross-cultural relationship is both exciting and challenging, but just like in any other relationship, if you’re determined to make it work, it will work despite the challenges. All it takes is the right amount of love, respect, and effort from both parties.