I adopted these new habits from my experiences abroad
I never realized how travel can change you
Costa Rica is considered one of the happiest places on earth. The national motto even says so. “Pura Vida” or “Pure Life” translated literally generally means that they take life easy and enjoy the smaller things in life to make them happy. I can say that Pura Vida has rubbed off on me in some ways. I’ve noticed that after spending 6 years abroad in this beautiful country that some of their habits have become native to my own and I’m not upset about it.
Contrary to U.S. American cultural attitudes, Costa Ricans or “Ticos” as they are commonly referred to run on Tico Time. They do not value punctuality like us North Americans do and will probably arrive a couple of hours after you set the date to socialize. They’re not being rude they are just enjoying the “Pura Vida”. I’m not saying that I run on Tico Time because as a North American, I am punctual and am bothered by tardiness— (I confess guiltily) but I have adopted a mentality of taking life a little slower and trying to put others before myself when I realize that the whole world does not revolve around me. I try to recognize other people’s goals and schedules and give them consideration to decide if they want to associate with me. Not everyone matches my energy and that’s ok. I can ride the wave and get to my destination when I get there with whomever decides to tag along.
This mentality slower life mentality produces a sense of happiness. When you slow down to smell the flowers every once in a while you give room to happiness. You have room to stretch and figure out how to adjust your life according to your goals and the goals of those who want to be a part of your life. You don’t have to always answer the phone when it rings or checks your messages when it dings because what is meant to be will be and there is no forcing it. This way of thinking is very freeing.
As you feel more free at will you will become hungry. And the way Ticos eat is also very purposeful. I noticed that many Ticos do not eat and read messages on their computers or use their cell phones at the same time. They swear it’s good for digestion and maybe they’re right. I noticed I don’t scarf down my meal when I’m sitting in front of a computer screen and hit fewer air pockets when I chew. I’m thinking about my meal with gratitude and I enjoy it all the more. I can savor it as I actually taste my food and that relationship with my food becomes more important.
Costa Rica is a nation full of beauty and warmth. The people’s way of being is so different from that of the fast pace of life in the U.S. Their outlook on life can be so different as a tropical climate with a lot to offer those who take the time to visit this special land. From the warm way they socialize to the way they eat together, they have impacted the way I see life and I don’t mind incorporating a little bit of Pura Vida into my own. I’m thankful for the experiences.
What are some cultural habits you have picked up from your travels? Do you have any travel experiences worth sharing? Leave them in the comments. I would love to know about them.