Change and transition can be hard. Here are the practice for overcoming the challenges of studying abroad.

The smell of croquettes and jamon filled my nose as I sauntered by a table of teenagers laughing and nibbling tapas. The air was crisp and the sun danced low in the autumn sky. At a near-by playground, children let out their after-school jitters as their parents sipped espressos.

The afternoon deserved to be pictured on a Madrid postcard. Yet, I was not in the mood.

I felt uneasy. My routine was off. I felt unaccomplished. I pictured my life back home in the states and marveled: I took seven classes, was apart of three clubs, went to the gym, and still managed to have a social life. How had my productivity taken such a plunge? Looking back, I realize I had made a big mistake: I had begun to compare my life in Madrid to my life at home. Living in a new city, surrounded by a new culture, and speaking a different language has required a longer transition period than anticipated. I pictured myself accomplishing just as much, if not more, than I was by Week #3.

Playing the comparison game is dangerous. First, it is unrealistic to live in a new city, surrounded by a new language, a new family, and a new culture and expect the comparison to be fair. Second, comparison not only distracts from the extraordinary experience and plants seeds of doubt. This doubt prevents transition into the culture, and in the end, hinders personal growth.

Therefore, to battle the feelings of restlessness, doubt, and uncertainty that come when living in a new culture, I have integrated three practices. While these practices are in the context of studying abroad, they can be applied to any situation: attending college, living in a new city, or even day-to-day “normal” life.

1. Write down your “wins”

When in a new environment, success with look different. At home, my daily “wins” included acing a test, joining a club, or taking on a new position. In Madrid, my “wins” include visiting a new museum, having a long conversation in Spanish with my host sister, or being known by the barista at my favorite cafe. Write down your wins–big or small–so every day you can see that you are making progress

2. Don’t be afraid to be alone

People tend to stay in packs when experiencing something new, however, don’t neglect quiet time. Try setting aside 15 to 30 minutes a day to read, journal, take a walk, or merely reflect. In the mornings, I try to set aside time to read my Bible with drink my coffee. Whatever you do, take a minutes each day to slow down and breathe. An individual becomes much more emotionally vulnerable when exhausted. Having a few moments to myself allows me to be refreshed and fully appreciate the beautiful city around me.

3. Do your homework

Before I departed for Madrid, I did a little research. I wrote down a list of museums, shops frequented by locals, tourist attractions, and other destinations that interested me in the city. When I was restless or missing home, I used my list as a guide to get to know my new home. Doing your homework before hand will pay off when you have an afternoon with nothing to do. Rather than sitting in your room on your phone (*cough* *cough* I am absolutely guilty of this) you will have a list of planned places to go and things to do that will help you get to know and love your city.

No matter how wonderful the experience is, the transition can be difficult. However, do not be discouraged. Everyone experiences these feelings at some level or another. All you can do is be proactive in the manner you battle it! What helps you transition during periods of change? I would love to hear your advice on overcoming the challenges of studying abroad!