From Connecticut to Tokyo: A Nomad's Adventure in Japan

Have you heard these common myths about life in Japan as an expat? Myth #1: Japan is an expensive country to live in. Myth #2: The language barrier is insurmountable and makes it difficult to navigate daily life. Myth #3: The work culture is overwhelmingly strict and rigid. Stay tuned as Mike Wiston reveals the truth behind these myths and provides valuable insights for a successful expat experience in Japan.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Unlock the intricacies of life as an expat in Japan.

• Gain remarkable insights on tackling time zone challenges as a remote worker.

• Uncover the unique contrasts between Japanese and American business cultures.

• Discover the rewarding advantages of living the minimalist way.

• Understand the profound significance of language proficiency in assimilating into Japanese society.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:29 - Connecting on MySpace

00:04:32 - Growing up in Connecticut

00:08:16 - Moving to Japan with Family

00:10:55 - Business Scene in Japan

00:13:54 - The Challenge of Time Zones

00:14:23 - Productivity Benefits of Working in Different Time Zones

00:15:28 - Family Life in a Different Time Zone

00:16:11 - Culture and Respect in Japan

00:18:29 - Class System in Japan

Takeaways from this episode:

• Visit nomadiccsuite.com to listen to more episodes of the Nomadic C Suite podcast.

• Check out Applebee's for a taste of Americana in New York City.

• Explore Meetup.com to find networking events and meet like-minded professionals in Japan.

• Consider joining a Japanese language school in the US to learn Japanese fluently.

• Keep your US passport for the freedom and flexibility it provides when traveling internationally.

• Research the process of obtaining a spouse visa in Japan if you plan to move there with your Japanese spouse.

• Renew your resident card annually if you are a permanent resident in Japan.

• Consider joining networking groups and meetup events in Japan to connect with local entrepreneurs and professionals.

• Understand the unique work culture in Japan, where seniority and time spent at a company often determine promotions.

• Be aware of the challenges of hiring in Japan, where employees are often hesitant to leave their current company for a startup.

• Set boundaries for your work schedule, such as not accepting meetings after 11:00 p.m. or before 4:00 a.m.

• Explore the Nomadic C Suite website for additional resources and information on work-life balance while living abroad

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