In the article about figuring foreigners out, I found multiple aspects not only interesting but also relatable to my life. While in India, one of the most notable cultural differences was the individualistic v. collectivistic dichotomy. In American culture, that which I have grown up with, people are very individualistic in thinking, but in India people are far more collectivistic. Life is lived relationally, value is found relationally, the community is more important than the individual.
For me personally, the differences between the monochronic and polychronic are very applicable. In general, western cultures are extremely monochronic. Time is important, and precision with time is expected. If dinner is at 7, arrive at 7. If you are late to class, you are frowned upon. In contrast, in most non-western cultures, people perceive time in a polychronic sense. Time is more general, less precise. If dinner is at 7, don't show up until 9. People do not obsess over time, are in less of a rush, and in general employ the use of wall clocks and watches to far less a degree.
I am much more polychronic than suitable for the American culture. Many times I show up to class around time instead of on time. I am an "ish" guy, meaning I would fit in wonderfully in Latin America.
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