15 American Habits I Lost in China // 美国人的习惯丢了

Here are some common American habits that I have lost while living in China.

By adapting to new surroundings and shifting my own cultural paradigms, it is truly amazing what I have learned and experienced. I may have to readjust a few of these habits when I return to the States though…especially #7. Enjoy!

1) Expecting everyone & everything to be on time

Everyone likes to move at their own pace, and that’s completely fine. In fact, it is relaxing and a lot less stressful. When you’re meeting friends at 1pm, you might as well assume that will be 2. This information especially comes in handy in regards to flying. Flights in China are almost always delayed, so you should prepare a comfortable 2-4 hour layover gap (at least) if you’re transferring flights. It would be a good idea to bring your headphones and a book to keep yourself occupied as well…

2) Driving to get everywhere

I can’t even remember the last time I drove a car. Walking, biking and tuk-tuking it around town is pretty effective here. Taxis and trains are pretty great too. The only downside is the lack of A/C…

3) Taking A/C, ovens and dryers for granted

Speaking of A/C, basic conditioning systems are not built within most of China’s housing establishments. That means you have to rely on a singular air conditioning unit to keep your room cool during the summer and warm during the winter (actually this is doable and is both very cost and energy efficient). Same goes for ovens – most kitchens just don’t have them. Chinese just are not big bakers! And drying your clothes? Better hang them up outside your window! (Also very easy and cost/energy efficient).

4) Not being able to distinguish Asians

Although I am still not a pro at this, I can pretty much distinguish Japanese, Koreans and Chinese from each other. And believe it or not – not all Chinese are the same. In fact, there are 56 recognized ethnic groups within China. I can also distinguish both northern and southern accents now. Progress!

5) Declaring personal space

I totally get it now. When there are just so many people in one place – personal space just isn’t possible. I’m pretty sure this phrase isn’t even translatable in Chinese.

6) Relying on coffee for a caffeine fix

Tea, oh glorious tea. Most coffee in China is still playing catch-up but the tea game is strong. Matcha has stolen my heart.

7) Waiting my turn

Lining up doesn’t work in China, so if you want something, you’ve gotta go for it. Just go straight for the prize. If you don’t push and shove, someone else will. You really have to move it… or lose it.

8) Binge watching TV

I never, ever watch TV in China. It’s such an unnecessary electronic. Laptops on the otherhand…

9) Being too polite

Taxi driver ripping you off? Speak up about it. Price of a shirt too high? Haggle the shit out of it. For the most part, foreigners are treated very well in China, but some Chinese will take any opportunity to get a little bit more cash. Assuming that you are “obligated” to pay extra just because you are a foreigner is not the rule. You have to know when to drop the politeness card and fight for yourself.

10) Apologizing for everything

Speaking of being too polite, forget about apologizing for every little thing. Bumping into people happens a lot, but you shouldn’t feel obligated to say sorry every single time.

11) Being afraid to travel by myself

Solo travel is an amazing experience. Traveling with friends is a lot of fun, but it is very easy to get caught up in the conversations and planning, which can deter you from slowing down and soaking in your surroundings. When you travel alone, you have fewer distractions, which means you can move at your own pace and really enjoy every step of the adventure.

12) Expecting all meals to arrive at the same time

In the States, it is basic restaurant etiquette to make sure that all meals come out at the same time so everyone at the table can all start to eat together. When you order meals in China, it is pretty much a free for all. The kitchen whips out what ever dishes it finishes first, so you may just end up sitting there while all your friends are chowing down on their delicious meals. But don’t worry, your food will arrive eventually…

13) Wearing heels to go out to a nice place with friends

Wearing heels in China is just not a smart idea. Yeah, you’ll look cute but you (and your feet) will definitely regret it the next day.

14) Being afraid of singing in front of people

Asians are serious about their karaoke. On this side of the world it is referred to as KTV. This concept makes many Westerners feel uncomfortable at first, but it is actually soooo fun.

15) Assuming my worldview was best

As an American, I was raised assuming the US was ‘the best’ and every other country was just trying to play catch up. How wrong indeed. In fact, by stepping outside of your own national borders, you can gain a whole new perspective on your home and discover how other nationalities perceive your country. My understanding of the world has been vastly expanded and I have come to realize just how interconnected – and similar – we all are.