© Sven Menschel
We have international classrooms and team coaches and ‘group work facilitators’ go to great extents to make sure that we all are more accommodating to each other’s cultures and habits. We all indeed acknowledge this difference but only a few of us know why. I would like to make a quick guide of life hacks to be able to master being with any Asian. Disclaimer: the word Asian covers a very-very large set of people, so don’t be surprised if you find exceptions in any respect.
1. Survival of the fittest. Most Asians come from countries where there are limited opportunities and unlimited people, so, do the math! Competition is a way of life and we are used to competing for almost everything. With time we hardly even notice it, but willingly or unwillingly we keep running the rat race.
2. Hustlers by nature. We may be smart or not so smart, regardless, hard work runs in our blood. There may be many easy ways to get something done, but until we feel we haven’t worked hard enough we don’t feel we have earned it. Plus we enjoy a bit of challenge and the stress that comes with it.
3. Aim for the big fish. This is slightly connected to the first point. We like to win big and of course, get noticed for it. So if there is an opportunity that comes around, like leadership roles, public speaking or being interviewed, Asians will be first in line, unlike some Dutch who prefer not being in limelight.
4. Being in good books. We are humble and very respectful. We also are extra careful of what we say to others and more importantly how we say it. We don’t bombard others with our opinions and always try to accommodate other people’s views. All this happens because we don’t like to upset others and are quite self-conscious of our own image.
5. It’s not just about you, it’s about the community. Once a person becomes successful the immediate mindset is set upon how to help and empower others. This kind of community thinking has what kept us together and led to collective welfare.
So these culture-bred habits are what you may come across in real life. It may be annoying or pleasing, both ways at least now you know the “WHY” behind it.