The Art of Balancing Work and Culture: A Day in the Life of a Work and Learn Participant in Japan

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Start my day at 6 AM with Mindfulness. I start my day with a peaceful walk or meditation, helping me focus and prepare for the day ahead. Living in Japan has taught me the importance of balancing work, study, and personal well-being.

Language classes are a core part of the program. Each day between 8 AM and 12 noon I attend Japanese Language course at the Japanese University to clear N3 level. Becoming bilingual in English and Japanese has opened doors in both my personal and professional life. It helps me understand Japanese culture better and connect with locals and colleagues. In the 6 months that I have been in Japan I have realized that I stand a better chance of a professional career in Japan if I excel in Japanese language.

Once classes get over my mind shifts to food. Lunch is not just a meal, but an exploration of Japanese cuisine. From bento boxes to ramen, every dish offers a taste of the culture. This is also a chance to practice Japanese with classmates and colleagues, improving my conversational skills for about an hour. As I love seafood I am trying out all possible menu on offer

I make most of the program architecture and ensure that I am meaningfully employed. I’m allowed to work up to 28 hours per week, and 40 hours during holidays. So each day I visit my work place at 1:30 PM on the dot. My part-time earnings amount to 100,000 INR per month that has helped to a large extent to cover my living expenses in Japan. The work experience has been invaluable, giving me practical skills and insights into the Japanese work culture.

Part time working staff get to leave at 5:30 PM. I quickly board the metro before the peak crowd hits and reach back to my room. Some days, I review my language lessons, while on others, I focus on developing new skills such as learning a new Japanese phrase or practicing Kanji writing. I also use this time for light reading or catching up on work-related tasks, ensuring I stay organized for the next day

Evenings after 6 PM are devoted to immerse myself in Japan’s vibrant culture. Some days, I visit local shrines or temples to learn about Japan's history and traditions. On other days, I explore bustling markets or try out new restaurants offering authentic Japanese cuisine. I also enjoy attending local festivals or cultural events whenever possible, experiencing firsthand the rich tapestry of Japanese celebrations. Occasionally, I unwind by practicing Japanese calligraphy or watching a traditional Noh or Kabuki performance.

I have a scheduled time slot between 10 and 11 PM which I devote to reflect on the current day and plan for the next. To unwind, I often watch a Japanese drama or anime, which helps me pick up conversational phrases in a more relaxed setting. Sometimes, I engage in light stretching or yoga to relieve any tension from the day. On quieter nights, I enjoy organizing my plans for the next day using a productivity app.

There are occasions when sleep evades me. During such periods I spend time reflecting on my long-term goals, aligning my daily efforts with future aspirations. The university outplacement team have informed that my Japanese language skills are shaping up very well. They have promised to help me secure at least three job offers, with the minimum salary being 2,500,000 INR. This amount is more than three times what I earned in my last role in India.

If you're considering this program, know that it offers more than just professional development; it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve new levels of success, both financially and personally.