4 Ways How To Thrive As A Peace Corps Volunteer
From Zen Buddhist monk Shunmyo Masuno’s book "How to Let Things Go"
Serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer is can be very rewarding, but not without it's own challenges. Balancing cultural adjustment, work projects, and personal goals can feel overwhelming at times. Here are four tips to help you navigate your service with less stress, inspired by the book "How to Let Things Go," by Zen Buddhist monk Shunmyo Masuno.
1. Focus on the positives when faced with challenges.
When setbacks happen—whether it’s a canceled community meeting or language struggles—it’s easy to dwell on the negatives. Masuno reminds us that worrying doesn’t help. Instead, focus on what’s working and look for solutions. Even in tough moments, remind yourself: this will pass. By being optimistic, you’ll find it easier to problem-solve and move forward.
Action for PCVs: Each evening, jot down one positive thing from your day in your journal, no matter how small.
2. Trust your decisions
Advice from fellow PCVs, community members, or even PC staff is valuable, but it’s important not to let outside opinions cloud your judgment. Masuno emphasizes the importance of knowing your own mind and making decisions you feel confident about.
Action for PCVs: Take time to reflect on your "why", and why you applied for service. Use it as a guide when faced with tough choices.
3. Let go of past successes and failures.
Maybe your project didn’t go as planned, or maybe it was a big success. Either way, Masuno encourages us to avoid getting stuck in the past. Focus on what’s happening now. Your work is a living thing—always changing and adapting.
Action for PCVs: After wrapping up a project, take stock of lessons learned, then shift your attention to what’s next.
4. Know when to step back.
Not every problem can be solved during your service. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is walk away from that particular problem. This doesn’t mean giving up—it means prioritizing your energy for what matters most.
Action for PCVs: If you’re stuck in a frustrating situation, ask yourself, “Is this the best use of my energy?” If not, consider refocusing your efforts elsewhere.
Masuno’s advice is a reminder that while Peace Corps service is challenging, you have the tools to lighten your load. By focusing on being positive, trusting your gut, staying in the 'now', and choosing your battles, you can lower your stress and increase your happiness during your PC service.
What strategies help you handle stress during service? Share your thoughts in the comments!
For more tips like this, subscribe and also check out WanderingTheWorld.com
Reference: 4 ways to stop making life more difficult for yourself, from a Zen Buddhist monk