We live in a world filled with so many unique people and perspectives. We also live in a world rich with culture and history. Having a plan to enrich yourself can help you speak more knowledgeably, interact more empathetically, and behave more authentically. But to become more cultured can also be a daunting task, one that feels too overwhelming to even begin. So here, are 7 suggests that I’ve been implementing to become a more well-rounded, culturally literate person of the world.

7 Ways to Become More Cultured:

ONE:: Read Better Books

First, it’s important to read. And probably read more than you are currently reading. Did you know the average employee reads about one book a year while the average CEO reads 60 books a year? That should tell you something. But it isn’t just a matter of reading more fluffy beach reads. Yes, they have a time and a place. But consider reading books that will help you grow personally, professionally and intellectually. Perhaps it’s a nonfiction book about a certain point in history. (I recently read Killers of the Flower Moon and was blown away at the historical reality it chronicled, that I knew nothing about.) Or an autobiography, or self-help book. Not sure where to start? These were my favorite books from 2018, and from 2017.

TWO:: Befriend People Who are Different Than You

If you only have friends who are exactly the same, your world view will be limited to the things they know and experience. On the other hand, if you have friends who have different political, cultural, religious, and social beliefs they can help you understand and see things in a completely different light. Be sure to engage in civil conversation and dialogue - remembering to dialogue means to listen in order to understand, not to change someone’s mind.

THREE:: Stay Up on the News

Whether you are reading a physical newspaper or the paper’s app, or listening to a daily news round-up podcast, making this a daily habit will make you a more informed citizen of the world. It will also make you more able to engage in conversation about world events. Personally, I love listening to the BBC’s Global News Podcast because it provides a larger world-view than many of the US-based publications.

FOUR:: Visit a Museum

Okay, you have to do more than just aimlessly stroll through the museum. Consider taking an official tour to understand more of what you are taking in, or take the time to read the write-ups that are provided for the various exhibits. I try to make it to the Chicago Art Museum once a year, as well as at least one other museum or public exhibit - such as the aquarium.

FIVE:: Travel

Whether it is to a neighboring city, a different state, or a foreign country. Traveling outside of the places you are used to, will give you a different view and perspective. I was really struck by this when I visited Miami earlier this month. The culture, the people, the environment were all so different from Chicago. It felt like going to a totally foreign place, and I enjoyed soaking it all in - even if it was less than three full days!

SIX:: Dive into the Classics

There is a reason somethings stand the test of time and others fade into oblivion. Taking the time to dive into the classics and attempt to understand why they made the cut can be really enriching. Consider classic novels, classical music, classic art and architecture, classic movies. Each month you could focus on something different. You could start by reading Crime and Punishment and then study Michelangelo’s Pieta and then spend time listening to Mozart and then attend a performance of Romeo and Juliet. Psst… these are my suggestions if you’re looking for classic novels to read.

SEVEN:: Enrich your Taste Buds

Don’t just go to the same restaurants and make the same meals day after day. Consider enriching your taste buds and broadening your palette by trying new cuisine. You might be surprised to find there are dishes that quickly become your favorite, that you never would have known about if you didn’t take the leap and try something new.