Growing up between Yuma, AZ, and Algodones, Baja California, I often found myself confused by the contrasts in culture. On one hand, I was living in the structured world of the U.S., and on the other, immersed in the vibrancy of Mexican traditions. It wasn’t always clear where one identity began and the other ended.
This article in HBR discussed how living abroad helps develop a clearer sense of self, and it really resonated with me. It highlighted how being exposed to multiple cultures allows for deep reflection on personal values, identity, and beliefs, something I experienced firsthand being a citizen of both the U.S. and Mexico.
Just like the individuals in the study who gained clarity from international experiences, I had to navigate through self-discerning reflections growing up. Being surrounded by two different ways of life pushed me to constantly evaluate which parts of me were core values versus cultural influences. This reflection made me more adaptable, helped me embrace a unique distinction, and ultimately gave me a stronger sense of who I am.
Looking back, I now see that it was fate that led me to the line of work I do and the life I live, straddling the border between the U.S. and Mexico. My experiences and understanding of international dynamics, and fluency in both languages, skills that have become essential in my career. Working across borders, managing business in both countries, and living a bilingual life feels like the natural progression. It’s as though all those years of navigating two worlds prepared me for the unique opportunities and challenges I face today.
First published on LinkedIn.