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Diversity is the greatest strength of the human race. The variance in opinions, approaches, histories, cultures, people, places, wildlife, nature, experiences and opportunities are what makes travel so interesting and enlightening!
So embrace the diversity… THRIVE on it!
When you recognize yourself being critical of something just because it’s not like what you’re used to, or what you’ve experienced in the past, take the time ask yourself “Why am I being like this” and “Is it really justified, or am I just stuck in my own bubble and am unwilling to get out and see this from another’s perspective?”
The world is full of people… Literally… The Anthropocene has begun!
When you travel you see all types, all sizes, all shapes, all shades.
And you realize, despite our differences, just how alike we all really are.
And then you start to notice the little things…
The characteristics and dress sense and mannerisms, accents, languages.
The lines draw in your mind, often don’t reflect where borders really are… Somehow this world is quite a jumble.
By admitting that you don’t know everything about people, cultures and places, you free yourself from the burden of having all the answers and open yourself up to learning new things instead.
Societies and cultures are unbelievably complex. You could study them for a lifetime and not learn everything.
With them come a myriad of opinions, knowledge and preferences around life, behaviour, food and anything you can possibly imagine.
It’s a lot!
However, it is that variety that makes travel fascinating and fulfilling. Celebrate the differences you experience as you wander the globe, don’t hide behind your usual routines or you’ll end up missing out on genuine experiences.
The social and cultural diversity of the world is what brings it its richness and vibrancy. It makes the world a better place. Some might dispute this argument from a socio-cultural perspective, yet biologically…
Our diversity protects us.
Binds us together and safeguards our societies, our communities and our DNA.
Everyone has prejudices, it’s impossible not to.
You might make an assumption about a loud American, or your hand covers your purse when you see a homeless person. It’s not bad, per se… it’s human.
What’s bad is letting your prejudices dictate your actions.
One way to help you eliminate or at least taper your prejudices is to become more aware of them. Next time you notice that thought that seems ‘not ok’, or that impulse based on nothing, take note of it.
Then, try to think about what preconceptions you might have that are making you think that way.
What could you do to change your mind?
What steps could you take to try not to have the same reaction next time?