However do
not just criticize Japanese.
If you do, Japanese friends and family
may shut down
connmunication with you, You need
a careful strategy
if you want to change something. They
are very pollte,
persevering and hard working. I cannot
overemphasize
the value of politeness in communicating
with Japanese.
If you do not communicate with politeness,Japanese
will respond negativeIy. However if
you show respect and
politeness, you can get positive results
far more quickly.
Try it.
Unfortunately there
are few books dealing with reverse
culture shock, though there are many
books explaining how
to adiust to American culture. Here
I would like to share
with you my ideas how to prevent reverse
culture shock
based on my own experience.
1. Before
going back to Japan to live, try to visit
Japan in advance if possible.
2. Find a
mentor who is willing to offer to help you
adjust smoothly.
3. Use Japanese
by writing letters to family and friends.
Chinese characters are easy to forget.
Textbook for "Business competence examination" by
JMA Management Center is recommended,
4. Keep interest
in the events in Japan
Subscribe
to Japanese newspapers or journals;
Asahi Shinbun 1-800-692-7244
Chicago Shinpo 312-478-6170
Hawai Hochi 8O8-845-2255
Nichibei Times 415-921-6820
Nihonkeizai shimbun l-80O-322-1657
North American Post 2O6-623-O100
OCS news 1-800-367-3405
Rafu Shinpo 312-478-6170
Rocky Mountain Jiho 3O3-295-1848
Yomiuri ArneriCa Inc l-800-272-O799
Go to ]apanese
book stoes,
Asahiya,
Kinokuniya(On-Line Book Stores)
Imidas 1998 by the Shueisha is a good information source.
Do not underestimate the issue of reverse
culture shock,
It may be more serious for children,
so called "returnee
student".
In conclusion, I would like to ask
readers in Japan to
welcome our colleagues who were out
of Japan for many
years and vulnerable to losing their
Japanese identity.