Thank you, I am working hard! (Though the frequency of blog posts would indicate otherwise)

Working in japan you will often hear the phrase `Otsukaresama` (お疲れ様). Unless of course you’re a lazy git! It`s just a general, `oh look at you working hard.` When you are rushing around your workplace, or are seen there later than usual, people will typically say Otsukaresama to indicate their appreciation of your hardships. Sometimes when you are talking about upcoming work or how busy you have been lately, Otsukaresama will mean `thank you for your hard work` or `I can see you worked hard.`

But the strangest place I’ve had this phrase uttered to me, is when i`m in the men`s room. Now picture the scene, its coming to about five or six o’clock, the sun is going down, you`ve been fighting the urge to pass out during the days sweltering heat. You decide now is the perfect time for a call of nature. But many people get the same tingling as you. As you stand in the stall, whistling whatever tune is in your head that day (Top of the World by The Carpenters currently), a man walks in and stands in the stall beside you. He nods slightly in your direction and says, `You must be tired.`

 

'I see productivity is up this quarter, keep it up Johnson'

 

Your first instinct is to be defensive! `That`s not tiredness, I`ve a lot on my mind. What is that `something in the wind that`s learned my name` that Karen Carpenter is singing about? It`s cold in here. Etc etc.` But then realise he`s saying you are tired because of all the hard work you`ve been doing. Then you relax, lean back a little, and think yes, yes, Yes, I have been working hard today!

In fact, if you just walk around with a pensive look on your face, people will assume you`re working hard and give you an enthusiastic `Otsukaresama` anyways. I`ve been perfective my `deep contemplation` face for months now. For added effect, always carry a clipboard. No one questions the work ethic of a man with a clipboard and a far off thoughtful look in his eyes.