Twenty-Five

I am blessed!

As many of those who know me might think that it is pretty weird for me to say so since I do not follow any organized religion. However lately that’s the only way I know how to describe where I’m at in life.

I have been living in Tokyo for three months now. I have some amazing friends here, I like my job very much (its challenging all the time and I’m making things happen!), and my apartment is finally coming together and feeling like home! I even had some friends over for dinner last night! Yes, I cooked!! I have been to three different countries; one each month! I have an amazing life and I’m just beginning to understand that fully.

At this point, you may be wondering why this entry is called 25. Well... I’m one week away from my 25^th birthday. Yes, you heard me right! I will be the big two-five in a week! I never thought in a billion years that I would be spending my 25^th birthday in Tokyo, Japan! But here I am! 

long working hours...

Yes, we are here working for long hours. I put in about 12 hours each day no questions asked. (yikes, I know!) After that, I throw in the towel. On Wed. and Fri. we have ‘short’ days to conserve energy. I quote ‘short’ because although we are supposed to be done by 6 each night, I don’t think I have actually seen anyone leave at that time. Let alone it is mandatory that we get here by 8:30 every morning.; another energy saving tactic.

I have broken down the average day as follows:

Time away from Desk (80%)

• Meetings – It is customary for people who are not involved in meetings to attend as a sign of respect, unity, and moral support; even if you are not paying attention, on your computer or, in rare cases, asleep in your chair.
•  At someone else’s desk – discussion is a big part of the culture here. Getting feedback and including others in the process is very important.
• Outside of work – ‘most business decisions are done over drinks’ Although I would like this to be true, it doesn't happen as often as expected. On the rare occasion that you do go out for drinks with coworkers, its main intention is for group bonding, which is also very important in the environment. Comradery is viewed highly.

Time at Desk (20%)

• It is rare to see many people alone at their desk during the 9-5 due to all of the meetings…! It typically takes place after about 6:30 at night.

Keeping in mind that the HQ in Tokyo has to service the whole world; we need to be available to every region. This is vertually a 24 hour/day job, its not just cultural. But could anyone else outside of the Japanese do this?!?!