It turns out I’m not so up-to-speed on traditions or customs here in China. Sometimes I observe things and think “Hmm. Ok, that’s kind of cool.” and other times my response is a bit different. Tonight I’m writing about the cool reaction.
Since I began working a few weeks ago, each day, shortly after 1pm, I’ve noticed what has to be just a normal custom in China: taking a 10-20 minute nap at your workstation. As I walk through the office I see colleagues with their arms crossed and foreheads resting there upon or, sometimes, leaning back in their chairs in a slight recline with a towel over their eyes. This is a tradition I find to be rather neat! As I’m going about my tasks I do my best to not disturb anyone so they can get a few winks in any be productive once they wake. It’s similar to the siesta in Mexico, except you do not go home and take your nap at work instead.
I’ve also noticed all the developers on my team wear slippers or sandals while in the office. Though I’ve not seen it happen, I’m assuming they wear a different pair of shoes to the office then switch to “indoor footwear” once arriving at their desks. I know in Japanese culture it is normal not to wear shoes inside one’s house, but I’m not sure about the office. Maybe this is a similar custom?