Life-Changing Secrets of China's Influence on Expats Revealed

Living in a foreign country obviously rubs off on you, especially when the culture, language, and customs there are so different compared to what you’ve been used to growing up. For me, as a twenty-something Irish lady who came here a few years ago “on an adventure” and has stayed here ever since, the effect of China on me was not apparent until after a year of living here. It was after my first trip home when friends and family first pointed out these strange new habits I had acquired—things like the way I said goodbye on the phone to my new choice of hot beverage. While each person has their own “China experience,” here are ten of the most obvious habits I picked up in China that I’ll most likely keep for life.

Another thing that stuck with me is the way I now greet people. I used to say “hello” or “hi,” but now I’ve adopted the local habit of asking, “Have you eaten yet?” It’s not just a question; it’s a ritual. You’re supposed to respond with something like, “I ate, but I’m still hungry,” which feels like a bizarre conversation starter. Yet, it’s oddly comforting. It’s like a cultural handshake, and I’ve found myself using it in casual chats, even with my Irish family. It’s not just about food—it’s about connection, and I’ve come to appreciate that.

One habit I’ve embraced is the art of waiting. In Ireland, we’re all about “just do it,” but here, patience is a virtue. I’ve learned to wait in lines for hours without flinching, even if it’s for something as simple as a cup of tea. The first time I tried to cut in line at a convenience store, I was met with a mix of confusion and disapproval. It’s not about being polite—it’s about respecting the unspoken rules of harmony. I’ve started to see it as a form of meditation, though I’ll admit I still get twitchy when the queue moves slower than a snail on a treadmill.

It’s funny how something as simple as using a phone in public has changed. In China, everyone’s glued to their screens, but it’s not about scrolling endlessly. It’s about *strategic* multitasking. I’ve picked up the habit of using my phone to check the weather, read news, and even play games while waiting in line. It’s not just about passing time; it’s about efficiency. I’ve started doing the same at home, which has led to my cat watching me with the same judgmental stare as my Irish grandmother.

One habit I never expected to adopt is the art of “saving face.” In Ireland, we’re all about being direct, but here, it’s about diplomacy. I’ve learned to avoid confrontation at all costs, even if it means letting someone win a debate. It’s not about being fake—it’s about maintaining peace. I’ve started using phrases like “I see your point” even when I don’t, and it’s oddly empowering. It’s like a cultural superpower, and I’ve found it’s incredibly useful in both personal and professional settings.

The most surprising fact I’ve learned? In China, it’s common for people to use the term “jiu” (酒, meaning “alcohol”) as a term of endearment, similar to “buddy” or “pal.” I once heard a group of elderly men calling each other “jiu” while arguing about the best way to cook dumplings. It’s a reminder that even in a place where everything seems rigid, there’s a surprising amount of warmth and humor.

I’ve also picked up the habit of carrying a reusable cup everywhere. In Ireland, we’re big on sustainability, but here, it’s a necessity. I’ve started refusing single-use plastic like it’s a moral obligation, and I’ve even convinced my flatmates to join me. It’s not just about the environment—it’s about being part of a community that values long-term thinking. Plus, I’ve discovered that my reusable cup has become a conversation starter at local cafes.

One habit I’ll probably keep forever is the way I now handle payments. In Ireland, we’re all about cash, but here, it’s all digital. I’ve learned to scan QR codes like it’s second nature, and I’ve even started using my phone to pay for groceries, transportation, and even my morning coffee. It’s seamless, but I’ll admit, I still feel a bit nervous when I forget my phone. It’s like a digital version of a passport—without it, you’re basically a ghost.

If you’re thinking about moving to China or exploring opportunities abroad, check out [Find Work Abroad: Find Work Abroad](https://www.findworkabroad.com/) for tips on navigating the job market and making the most of your expat experience.

In the end, these habits aren’t just quirks—they’re a reflection of how deeply China has influenced me. Some are practical, others are odd, but all have shaped the way I see the world. I’ve learned that adaptability is key, and sometimes, the best lessons come from the most unexpected places. Who knew that a cup of tea could teach me patience, or that a simple “bye bye” could become a lifelong habit?

Categories:
China,  Habit,  Phone,  Everywh,  Using,  Learned,  Started,  Habits,  Picked,  Ireland,  Keep,  Irish,  First,  Still,  Simple,  Findworkabroad,  Probably,  Life,  Living,  Home,  Family,  Experience,  People,  Local,  Conversation,  Starter,  Oddly,  Cultural,  Found,  Come,  Waiting,  Patience,  Line,  Admit,  Check,  Same,  Surprising,  Term,  Reusable,  Thinking,  Become,  Digital,  Work,  Foreign,  Obviously,  Rubs,  Especially,  Culture,  Language,  Customs,  Different,  Dongguan,  English, 

Add Comment