How To Make Friends In America As An Immigrant

Intro

Living as an immigrant in a new country can be challenging. Everything is just new to you - the language, the culture, the people and their interests, and even the food. At some point, it might seem like it’s a lot of work and a lot of stress to move and live in a new country, but as our guests would teach us today, surrounding yourself with the right support system will make things easier.

Our guest is Megha Jindal, an immigrant who moved from New Delhi, India to the US six months after she met her now husband. To me, Megha is the true definition of poise. And in a world that says that toughness, resilience and badass-ery looks a certain way, she has shown that strength is also kindness, warmth, and big-heartedness.

In this episode, Megha talks about her struggles as an immigrant in the US, and how embracing your uniqueness can help you make friends and attract the right people in your life.

Guest Bio

Megha Jindal works as a Portfolio Success Officer at Salesforce. She has more than five years of experience in Customer Success & Project Management and has exceptional skills in turning customers into brand advocates.

Key Takeaways

• What it’s like to live in a new country as an immigrant [02:03]
  
• Creating community in your new home city [04:12]
  
• Embracing your uniqueness despite social pressures [10:04]
  
• How to live a life you’ll be proud of [14:59]
  
• Productive ways to relieve stress after moving into a new country [19:58]

Quotes

“When you figure out who you are, eventually, it becomes easier to discern the right people for you. And it just becomes easier to attract the right people to you as well.” (Anya)

“Unique doesn't have to be unique from one person's perspective. It's unique from your own perspective.” (Anya)

“I’m religious and I like to pray. I like to follow discipline. So I also liked connecting with people who were doing that. This is when I realized who I am and I like having that trust and belongingness.” (Megha)

“I feel like that's a lesson for everyone – to not judge things at face value. If you don't understand something or you don't agree with something, ask more questions to figure out the intention behind why someone is doing something. And from there, you can make another judgment or decision if you want to.” (Anya)

Live Your Best Life!

Want to learn how to self-validate, let go of self-doubt, and figure out what a successful life looks like for you (not your parents)? Then download our complimentary audio guide here.

Take the first step to living your own life beyond anyone else's expectations!

Find episode transcript here --> https://www.navigatingculture.co/the-homesickness-cure-podcast-how-to-make-friends-in-america-as-an-immigrant