Here are some things that the Chinese have a hard time understanding about Americans:
1. Our independence from our parents at an early age
2. Our reluctance to accept help in our daily life with small tasks we can do ourselves
3. Our need for a schedule and desire to make plans in advance
4. Our ability to be very direct without getting our feelings hurt
5. The individual is usually more important than the whole
And from talking to my fellow volunteers, here are some things we have a hard time grasping about Chinese culture:
1. When people want to help you do even the most basic of things, it is because they care about you
2. No schedules and no need to tell anyone in advance of your plans
3. Constantly reassure people you are pleased with everything
4. If it is for the good of the family, the school, or the country, you don't complain or protest, you accept it.
5. Lack of conflict is the most important goal in everything. As a result, never tell anyone what you are really thinking.
The making plans part would kill me! too funny the differences.
ReplyDeleteThat city is HUGE!! looks like you will never be bored.
Kirsten: i wish you could come over, I think you would have fun shopping.
ReplyDeleteJenn: it is really tough some days. You just want to be your direct, scheduled, independent self, and you have to hold back for the sake of cultural sensitivity. It is not always fun, to say the least.