There’s a well-known Japanese saying: “Sake wa nonde mo nomareru na,” which means “Drink, but don’t let the drink drinks you” It’s a reminder to enjoy drinking while staying responsible. But recently, I’ve seen videos on social media of Japanese office workers getting very drunk after drinking too much. Watching those videos made me feel embarrassed but also a little sad. I wondered about the stress and pressure that might lead them to drink so heavily.
In Japan, drinking is often more than just a social activity—it’s part of the workplace culture. Many people feel they have to join coworkers or bosses for drinks after work as a way to strengthen relationships and teamwork. This practice, often called “nommunication” (a mix of nomu, meaning “to drink,” and “communication”), has been a traditional way of bonding in Japanese companies. While it can create positive connections, it also places unspoken pressure on people to participate, even if they would rather not. (I really hated workplace drinking parties.)
In other countries, drinking is usually separate from work and more about personal enjoyment. The idea of being expected to drink because of your job might seem strange to people outside Japan. This difference shows how workplace culture can shape how people drink.
As the holiday season comes, many of us will have more chances to drink at parties or celebrations. This is a great time to connect with others, but it’s also important to drink in a way that’s healthy and respectful. Alcohol can bring people together, but it’s never worth losing control over. It’s okay to enjoy a drink, but it’s also okay to say no.
The videos I saw on social media weren’t just about drinking too much—they also showed how stress and pressure affect people. Maybe this is a good time for all of us to think about how we can reduce stress and create a better balance in our lives.
As we celebrate this holiday season, let’s enjoy the time with friends and family while also being kind to ourselves and others. Wishing you a happy and peaceful season!
Kommentarer