Working in Guangzhou, China, the third biggest city in China and just two hours away from the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong, was an eye-opening experience that left a lasting impression on me. From my time spent there, I can confidently say that I have grown both personally and professionally, and I’m now ready to take on any challenge in any country.
Allard on great wall of China
1. Discipline as part of the culture
One of the first things I noticed and admired during my time in China was the remarkable work ethic of the people. Everywhere I looked, individuals were dedicatedly working towards building their country’s future. From orderly queues for the metro to construction sites operating round-the-clock, it was evident that hard work and discipline are ingrained in the Chinese culture. Their commitment to progress was awe-inspiring, and it taught me valuable lessons about dedication and determination.
From orderly queues for the metro to construction sites operating round-the-clock, it was evident that hard work and discipline are ingrained in the Chinese culture
A life devoted to hard work and discipline
2. When nobody speaks English, all you need is “Ganbei!”:
Despite the language barrier, I navigated my way through the city by relying on simple gestures and pictures on my phone. It was a funny experience to communicate with taxi drivers by showing them a picture of an airplane when I needed to get to the airport. Or to get deals done with factory owners while all you could do was smile and drink shots! Ganbei! Even without speaking English, the local people were incredibly friendly and patient, making me feel at ease in their country.
3. You can rock your career but still travel and enjoy
Balancing a demanding work schedule and exploring China’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture was an enriching experience. I flew across the country to visit factories, attended numerous networking events, and constantly met fellow expats. It taught me the importance of work-life balance, proving that even with a dedicated work ethic, one should make time to enjoy life and form meaningful connections.
Business district
4. China has a beautiful culture, traditions, and is a country of contrasts
My journey throughout China allowed me to immerse myself in its beautiful culture. From the towering skyscrapers on one street to live chicken and bustling traditional markets on the next, China seamlessly blended its rich heritage with modernity, creating a unique and vibrant tapestry of life. These experiences taught me the value of embracing diversity and respecting traditions, even in the face of rapid development.
From the towering skyscrapers on one street to live chicken and bustling traditional markets on the next, China seamlessly blended its rich heritage with modernity, creating a unique and vibrant tapestry of life
5. The pursuit of excellence
Lastly, I was amazed by China’s unparalleled growth and development. Witnessing the contrast between sprawling urban cities and serene rice fields in mere minutes of travel was a testament to the country’s progress. The lessons I learned about resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence will undoubtedly stay with me as I embark on new ventures in my career and life.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, my time in China was a transformative journey that gifted me invaluable insights into the country’s work ethic, culture, and growth. It was a place where hard work and dedication were evident in every aspect of life, and yet, people still found time to enjoy life and connect with others. China’s rich cultural heritage and rapid development left an indelible mark on my heart, and I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into a more confident and open-minded individual, ready to take on new challenges in any corner of the world. China, what a great country to work and live as an expat!
