by Nicki from Exclusive Smooch Club
Mental
Self-Awareness
Being aware of the differences are usually the first great step to a multi-cultural relationship. By understand how your upbringing has shaped your beliefs and behaviour, you could better understand yourself and your partner from their perspective. Often through this first seemingly unimportant step, couples are more likely to follow through to having a better bond. So please do recognise that your cultural perspective may differ from your partner's.
Patience and Empathy
Being raised in different cultures bring a richer and more unique relationship, however where there are differences conflict follows. Unfortunate. Understand that misunderstandings may occur not matter though translation, values or views. Patience is essential and the more empathy you show towards your partner's experiences and struggles the more likely that the two of you would have a good time. Remember that your relationship is a journey of growth and discovery.
Seek Support and Resources
Things don’t always play out how we like them to. If you can’t seem to make it work try doing “researches” to better understand your partner. You won’t blame someone that’s completely ignorance from their perspective, right? Vice versa, try being more open-minded in accepting an understanding why certain specifics matters for your partner. With internet access I am sure you’ll know where to look, but incase you don’t here’re some sources: Youtube, online articles and forums, books or even multicultural relationship experts or therapists.
Practice
Respect Differences
Simple as day, embrace the idea that differences can enrich your relationship.
Respect your partner's cultural traditions and practices, even if they differ from your own and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes based on cultural backgrounds. Again your relationship is a journey of growth and discovery.
Open Communication:
Create a safe space for open and honest dialogue, it’s okay to feel “stupid”, you couldn’t have known every aspect of your own culture so how would you for your partner? Get a laugh out of the mistakes you’ve made and listen actively without judgment while seeking to understand rather than to respond.
Negotiate Traditions:
Be flexible and willing to compromise, isn’t that the name of the game? Find a balance between each other's cultural traditions and rituals and Discuss which customs to incorporate into your shared life and which to adapt or let go.
Address Family Expectations
This is a more late game mechanic, recognising that family expectations can be significantly different from one another. Discuss how to manage family pressures and navigate family traditions. Again it is all about communicating effectively. Prioritize your relationship while respecting family ties.
Explore
Learn Together
I personally love binge watching videos with my partner, especially when we eat at home. Explore each other's cultures through books, vlogs, activities and attend cultural events if you can. This is also a great chance to learn the languages as language is a key to understanding culture, not only is this a sweet thing to do, you get a free tutor!
Embrace Culinary Adventures
Food is a powerful cultural connector, exploring and preparing meals together. Visit ethnic restaurants to expand your understanding. Be open to trying new dishes and, if applicable, learn about any dietary restrictions or cultural dining etiquette your partner may have. Sharing meals can create meaningful moments and deepen your connection.
Travel
Travel to each other's home countries, if possible. Traveling together can strengthen your bond and deepen your understanding.
Comment on the ethnicity of you and your partner, and share with us your stories, struggles or barriers.
