Living in the Present and Mirror Culture: Differences Between Japan and Mexico Seen Through Living in Mexico

Now, today I would like to write about the country where I currently live: Mexico.

While writing my university thesis about Latin culture and then actually moving to Mexico, I began to notice two cultural differences compared with Japan. Of course, these are simply tendencies; not everyone fits these descriptions. What I am sharing here is only my personal perspective.

Also, this is not about deciding which culture is better. I hope this can simply broaden perspectives. Rather than ranking cultures, understanding different values can help us become more considerate toward others. Many people who have lived abroad may relate to this feeling.

First: “Living in the present.”

Some people may already be able to imagine what this means. In Japan, it is common for people to endure the present moment “for the sake of the future.” People invest in many things—such as studying, gaining social experience, and saving money.

In contrast, many people in Latin cultures do not prioritize saving money. Part of the reason is the overall lower income levels, but there is also a tendency to spend money soon after earning it. The money might go toward material things, drinks, travel, or entertainment. People work to earn money in order to enjoy the present moment, and when the money comes in, they often spend it quickly.

Even in the process of working and making efforts toward their goals, many people appear relaxed rather than tense or pressured. Because of this, salaries are typically paid twice a month rather than once. If salaries were paid only once a month, many people might run out of money before the end of the month. Traffic in the city also becomes noticeably heavier on payday because many people go out shopping or spending time with friends.

People may still worry about the next day’s work, but compared with Japan, that feeling seems less common. As a result, it appears that far fewer people carry excessive stress in their daily lives.

The second cultural difference I noticed is what I would call “mirror culture.”

In Japan, people often make decisions based on the principle of avoiding problems whenever possible. Even when someone is sad or happy, others do not always deeply share those emotions. Sometimes people observe situations from a distance, and their own emotions tend to take priority. (I often find myself doing the same.)

In contrast, many people here seem to reflect others’ emotions like a mirror. When someone is having fun, people around them are influenced and begin enjoying themselves as well. When someone shares a sad story, others genuinely empathize with them.

For example, imagine two cyclists who almost collide on the road. If one person becomes angry, the other may also become angry. But if one person apologizes first, the situation often shifts, and both people acknowledge that they share some responsibility.

Thinking about this makes me realize how important it is to live daily life with positivity, enjoyment, and respect for others. The attitude we bring into interactions can strongly influence the responses we receive.

Conclusion

Beyond these two examples, there are many other personality traits and cultural differences between Japan and Mexico. Since the two countries are located on opposite sides of the world, some of these differences can feel almost completely opposite.

However, rather than judging which culture is better or worse, I want to continue living in a way that allows me to learn from different values and perspectives—so that both I and the people around me can grow in positive ways.