Every morning can be a bit hectic for a night owl like me.
I usually wake up around 7:30, but it takes me some time to fully awaken. By then, my children, aged 14 and 9, have already left for school.
Mornings for students in Japan are generally well-organized. Parents in the neighborhood form “tokouhan” (walking school bus groups) to ensure their children’s safe commute to school.
After seeing my kids off, I rush to work. Morning trains from my suburb outside Tokyo can be quite crowded during rush hour, with the commute typically taking 40-50 minutes.
Fortunately, I work for an American international company that offers benefits like work-from-home (WFH) and flexible work arrangements. However, not all employees utilize these privileges due to a strong sense of “belonging” to the company, a unique mindset prevalent among Japanese workers.
Japanese are known for their strong work ethic and dedication to their companies. This mindset is deeply ingrained, often cultivated from a young age through the school system.
This is one of the sources of stress in Japan. Despite the growing emphasis on well-being and new welfare concepts, traditional mindsets persist in many communities.
Even in 2025, while new lifestyles are emerging, navigating these traditional expectations within a small Japanese community can present unique challenges.
We are constantly seeking a better balance, but the path forward often involves navigating these awkward situations.
