1. Always Keep Learning
When Brian first arrived in Papua New Guinea, there was so much to learn. Between learning a new language to navigating another culture, so many things were different than life in the U.S. “Things I had taken for granted were suddenly missing or looked different. I had to adapt to a new way of life and figure out how to do life in a different country,” he said.
Through that experience, Brian realized how important it was to have a learner’s mindset. Proverbs 1:5 says: “Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance” (NLT). A fit mind exercised by healthy habits of lifelong learning, problem solving and facing fears is critical to thriving through challenges.
2. Embrace Wholeness
“In the midst of cross-cultural stress, I sometimes found it difficult to understand what I was feeling and why,” Brian said. “Adapting to a new way of life challenged me and tested my ability to manage my reactions in the midst of stress.” But confronting these challenges can help us understand why we react to situations in certain ways: “Instead, let us test and examine our ways. Let us turn back to the Lord” (Lamentations 3:40, NLT).
Brian’s experiences became an opportunity for him to engage more fully in life and respond to stressors with a healthier perspective. By embracing wholeness Brian found it possible to respond to challenges with steady emotional regulation and realistic optimism.
3. Connect With Others
