In the past couple of days, I had the pleasure to expose myself in Asian culture, westerners would define it as ‚different’. the borderline in the separation of common and different is blurred in today’s society a have diverse extensions in the level of cultural influence. 

Often it is easy to be fascinated by the common or distinctive characteristics. At the same time, looking over discrepancies provides faster adaptability inside the culture. 

However, when it comes to individual believes, cultural identity is a ground set of values we feel comfortable in. Per definition, cultural identity is someones believe of certain values and traditions that enhance safety and security in behaviour and action. 

Exposing myself to a culture with high personal fascination, it is often not enough to realise the real impact of culture on that society. Therefore, to truly understand the impact and the implications. An immersion in the culture is necessary. This will also lead to a value adaptation that enriches future capabilities to interact in multiple cultures. 

In reflection, facing this topic as a grown-up foreigner in multiple countries, the cultural adaptability increases with every step towards ‚getting along’. The characteristics of the culture will reach a part of personal values and fit together like a modular kit, that goes along with personal beliefs and the own definition of culture. One of the key drivers for this self-perception are people in the close environment. 

When it comes to my own cultural identity it’s a fluid set of values, which I build around four core pillars: people-minded; impact-driven; holistic and positive. The pillars are meant to be inclusive towards cultures and people – like nature. This drives the inner need for immersion, real interest and fascination for people’s stories.