Introduction: A Journey into Intercultural Intelligence
We live in a world where borders are both rigid and non-existent, where one can physically be in one place while culturally immersed in another. Our latest episode of Nomadic Diaries, featuring the globally experienced Roy Craft, took us on a profound exploration of intercultural connections and the essence of becoming 'omnicultured.'
The Philosophy of Engagement: Seeing and Hearing Across Cultures
Roy Craft's life philosophy is that everyone desires to be seen, heard, respected, and appreciated. This has shaped his approach to interpersonal relationships. This philosophy becomes even more potent when engaging across cultural divides.
Roy's unique experience as the only white person on staff at Morehouse College underscores the significance of cultural immersion. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about understanding and reaching out and learning to navigate through diverse environments by genuinely connecting with others through appreciation.
Appreciative Inquiry: A Positive Approach to Global Relationships
Delving into Roy's methodology, *appreciative inquiry* offers a refreshing take on how to perceive organizations and individuals. It's about identifying strengths rather than weaknesses, and leveraging these positive aspects to foster better interactions and outcomes. This method doesn't merely serve in Roy's professional encounters; it also embodies his personal mantra in daily communications, especially when guiding others virtually.
Omniculture in Practice: Moving Beyond Borders
In our conversation, Roy stresses the importance of striving to become omniculture – not just understanding but embracing a plethora of cultures. By sharing examples from his life in Mexico and his deliberate attempts to bond with the community, Roy provides actionable insights into how one can truly live this philosophy. It's a testimony to the power of intentionality and the beauty of seeing the world with new eyes.
Emotional Connections and the Impact of Mindfulness
A significant highlight of our discussion involved shifting from analytical thinking to truly experiencing the essence of a place. Roy suggests that we turn to poetry or similar channels to help us transit into a space of emotional connection and beauty appreciation. The biggest barriers to success, as he notes, are often within — calling for an internal transformation that aligns with our external changes.
Bridging Cultural Divides: Strategies for Global Citizens
Explicitly illustrating why *culture* is frequently likened to an iceberg, with the bulk of its substance hidden beneath the surface, Roy discusses the necessity of creating a 'third cultural space' in organizational settings. This third space is where different cultures converge, find common ground, and learn from one another. Whether it's in Japan's precision-demanding taxi industry or the nuanced global business environment - understanding, appreciating, and embracing different perspectives builds bridges rather than walls between cultures.
A Global Hearted Community: Uniting Through Understanding
Host Doreen Cumberford seeks to be a consistent advocate for a globally conscious lifestyle, and underscores the podcast’s goal to inspire a global hearted community. The depth of Roy Craft's international experience — 40 countries and counting — is a treasure trove of wisdom for listeners who aspire to live and work abroad. Roy's advocacy for cultural learning over cultural criticism emboldens individuals to become intercultural champions, increasing their global competency and finesse.
In Conclusion: The Expat Life: Blending, Learning, and Thriving Abroad
Roy Craft's profound insights remind us that the journey of an expat is less about the miles traveled and more about the mindset carried. To truly thrive in a new cultural landscape, one must shed preconceived notions and adopt a learner’s heart.
As the conversation wraps up, we're left with the powerful quote from Ram Dass, "Wherever you go, there you are," prompting us to ponder what we'd mentally pack for our journey into the world's richest tapestry of cultures.
Follow us into our next episode as Nomadic Diaries continues to chart the course for global connectivity, embracing the diversity that makes our world intriguingly complex and wonderfully interconnected.
