If you’ve had these 9 life experiences, you’re more cultured than you realize

There’s often a misconception about what it means to be “cultured”. Many believe it only relates to attending high-end events or having extensive knowledge about fine wines or classical music.

In reality, being cultured is about exposure to different ideas, perspectives, and traditions. It’s more about experiences than possessions. It’s not about how many languages you speak or how many countries you’ve visited, but rather the depth of your engagement with the world around you.

And chances are, if you’ve had certain life experiences, you’re more cultured than you think.

Here are nine such experiences that might just reveal your hidden cultured side.

1) Living abroad

One of the most transformative experiences a person can have is living in a country different from their own. It’s one thing to visit as a tourist, but it’s a whole other ball game to actually set up roots and immerse yourself in a new culture.

Living abroad means you’re not just observing from the sidelines but actively participating in the daily life of another culture. You learn about their customs, foods, and traditions, and you also learn to navigate the nuances of a new language and societal norms.

Becoming a part of another culture, even temporarily, allows you to see the world through different eyes. It fosters understanding, empathy, and adaptability – traits that are hallmarks of a cultured individual.

2) Engaging in cultural exchange

Engaging in cultural exchange doesn’t necessarily mean you have to travel to a different country. Sometimes, the most enriching experiences happen right at home.

I remember when I hosted a student from Japan as part of an international exchange program. It was an eye-opening experience. We learned so much from each other, from simple things like how our daily routine differed to deeper insights into our respective beliefs and values.

I found myself engaged in lengthy discussions about everything from food and fashion to politics and religion. It was a beautiful exercise in understanding and empathy, as we navigated through cultural barriers and language differences.

That experience taught me that being cultured is not just about what you know, but also about your willingness to learn from others. 

3) Reading world literature

Reading has always been a gateway to different worlds. And when you delve into world literature, you’re not just lost in a compelling narrative, but also experiencing different cultures, societies, and perspectives.

Take “One Hundred Years of Solitude” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, for instance. This renowned novel doesn’t just tell an interesting story; it introduces readers to elements of magical realism, a literary style rooted in Latin American culture.

In essence, reading world literature is like embarking on a journey around the globe – without even leaving your living room. 

4) Learning another language

Learning a new language goes beyond just mastering its grammar and vocabulary. It’s a deep dive into a culture’s unique worldview and way of life.

When you learn a new language, you’re not just learning to communicate in a different way, but also gaining insight into the cultural context that shapes that language. From idioms to proverbs, every language carries within it the history, values, and traditions of the people who speak it.

If you’ve learned a second language (or more), you’ve essentially broadened your cultural horizons. It’s definitely an experience that adds to your cultured credentials.

5) Participating in cultural festivals

Cultural festivals are a vibrant showcase of a community’s traditions, heritage, and spirit. Participating in these celebrations, whether it’s the colorful Holi festival in India, the lively Carnival in Brazil, or the mesmerizing Lantern Festival in China, exposes you to the heart and soul of a culture.

These festivals are often steeped in history and mythology, giving you insights into a culture’s beliefs and values. They also involve traditional music, dance, costumes, and food — all of which are elements of a culture that you get to experience firsthand.

If you’ve taken part in cultural festivals, especially those outside your own culture, you’ve gained an appreciation for diversity and a broader understanding of the world. That’s a sure sign of a cultured individual.

6) Volunteering abroad

Volunteering abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience that can truly broaden your cultural understanding. This is more than just a tourist experience; it’s an opportunity to give back, to connect on a deeper level, and to understand the struggles and joys of people from a different culture.

When you volunteer, you step into the shoes of locals, working alongside them and making a tangible difference in their communities. You’re exposed to the realities of their daily lives and get to share in their triumphs and challenges.

This heartfelt connection with another culture is a profound experience. It fosters empathy, compassion, and resilience – traits of a truly cultured individual. If you’ve spent time volunteering abroad, you’ve not only made a difference in the world, but also cultivated a richer cultural understanding.

7) Developing an appreciation for different cuisines

Food is a universal language. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s a reflection of a culture’s history, geography, and traditions.

I was a picky eater growing up. But as I got older, I started to explore new foods and flavors. I remember the first time I tried sushi. The combination of raw fish, rice, and seaweed was so different from anything I’d ever tasted, but it opened my eyes (and palate) to a whole new world.

Experiencing different cuisines is like a culinary journey around the world. Each dish has a story to tell, and by tasting it, you’re participating in that story.

8) Engaging with international news

In this interconnected world, being culturally aware means staying informed about global events. Engaging with international news helps you understand different perspectives and challenges outside of your immediate surroundings.

Following global news lets you see how events unfold in different parts of the world and how they are perceived by different cultures. This broader perspective can help you appreciate the complexities and nuances of our global community.

If you find yourself regularly reading or watching international news, it’s a sign that you have a global mindset – a key characteristic of a cultured individual.

9) Practicing empathy and understanding

At the heart of being cultured is the ability to empathize and understand others, especially those from different cultures. It’s about suspending judgment and being open to different ways of thinking and living.

Practicing empathy and understanding allows you to see beyond the surface, to appreciate the richness and diversity of the human experience. It’s not something that can be learned from a book or a class; it comes from genuine engagement with others.

If you practice empathy and strive to understand others, regardless of their culture or background, then you are truly cultured in the most meaningful sense of the word.

Final thoughts: It’s about perspective

It’s about the richness of your experiences and your openness to new ideas, beliefs, and traditions.

As the celebrated author Mark Twain once wrote, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” But remember that travel doesn’t necessarily imply crossing geographical boundaries. It’s about crossing cultural boundaries, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and immersing yourself in experiences that broaden your perspective.

If you’ve had these nine life experiences, or even just a few of them, take a moment to appreciate how they’ve shaped your worldview. You’re more cultured than you realize, and that’s something truly worth celebrating.