Pros and cons of raising a family in Japan: Encouraging open minds, struggling with your own norms

One of the things I love most about raising kids in Japan is how it very naturally encourages open-mindedness. My kids are exposed daily to a different language, social norms, and thought styles, and they learn early that our family's way of doing things isn't the default. It's a powerful lesson, I think, and probably one that more people around the world could stand to learn. 

At the same time it can be hard to pass on your own cultural values, since the school system, peer pressure, and broader social expectations are strong. Things like manners, communication styles, and even ideas about independence or conformity can clash with what you grew up with. 

One good example is Japan's very "harmony first, opinion second" way of thinking. In contrast, I feel like Australia is very much a culture of individuality, where people will happily challenge bosses, debate openly, and use humor to deflate hierarchy. There's no right or wrong, so to speak, since I think both approaches have their place! In saying that, I'd love if my kids got the skillset of both, and could utilize either approach when needed.