Quote:
Originally Posted by steven
In regards to the workplace, what do you guys think about some Japanese people basically dedicating their lives (some times at the expense of their family life) to their jobs? There are a lot of people who go to work before 8 and don't leave their work place until 8 or later every day-- sometimes even going to work on Saturdays and/or Sundays. For a foreigner, do you feel that fitting in with this part of the culture necessary? Is it worth it? Is it rewarded? What about not fitting in as far as this is concerned? Is it worth it having extra time with your friends and family to be thought of as another "gaijin" who doesn't take their work seriously?
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The work ethic of some Japanese is one thing I could never get into. One of the main reasons I went to live in Japan was to have quieter, less stressful life dedicated more to lifestyle than work and making money. It is exactly what I had during my time there but then I did mostly only work for foreign owned companies. Although there were periods of the year where I did have to do work extra hours I was able to accumulate time in lieu and take time off during less busy periods.
Things like work and career have never been the most important things in my life. I have only ever worked to live, not the other way around. Now that I have a daughter it has become more important than ever for me to have plenty of time at home. Back in Aus now and looking at business opportunities that will allow us a good work/life balance. Currently in negotiations to buy an established wholesale native plant nursery. We have always had an interest in native plants and do already have a landscape design company specialising in using native plants called Go Native Landscapes (hence my name on these forums). The business comes with a house on a 40 acre property from which most of the seeds for the plants come from. If we can raise the finance to purchase the business and property I think it will be perfect for us. Here's hoping!