Photo credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/beaumontpete/
The first rule of adapting to Canadian life – Observe, Observe, Observe!
Canada is multi-cultural and often, we think that it means we should be exactly who we were before we came to Canada. When we arrive our suitcases are full of home remedies, favourite foods and photos of family, but hidden between those items are our bad habits that we did not intend to pack.
In the West Indies we have a saying when we invite people over “come with your hands swinging”. It generally means don’t bring anything – just come over. If you invite anyone over in Canada, the first question asked is “What can I bring?”. I did not realise how uncomfortable it made others when I said “come with your hands swinging”. Now I say “whatever you would like to drink or a dessert”…and yes, I did show up to a number of homes with my hands swinging (ouch!).
Some bad habits are innocent such as not understanding personal space. In Canada, it is important to notice the distance people stand from each other when talking or in a line. Many of us come from countries that are more crowded and our idea of personal space is much closer than the norm here. Simple things like going through a door and holding it for the person behind you is a norm. Yet often, I have held the door for the person behind me and 6 others walk through without holding the door or saying thank you.
Some habits are more harmful. In many countries, there are no handicapped spots, four way stops and forming a line is optional at best. Failure to follow the norms will get you a fine or at least the ire of your fellow Canadians. The best way to learn is to observe others.
Any comments or thoughts? I would love to hear from you.
