What are the biggest values from my eastern upbringing?

As the cross-pollination of ideas takes effect, cultural values tend to reach a certain equilibrium across the world. However, there are certain values from my eastern upbringing that stand in sharp contrast to the western culture. These values are deeply ingrained in my mindset, shaping my perceptions and behaviors.

Learning to Be a Part of This World

In the west, children often grow up with an attitude that emphasizes making a permanent change in this world as a measure of their significance. In contrast, my eastern upbringing taught me to appreciate that I am a part of this world. I am no more significant than any other person, plant, animal, or insect. The perfection of my life lies in the degree to which I respect and value the other parts of this world that co-exist with me.

Embracing Patience and Perseverance

Many people in the west expect things to be fun, engaging, and easy. However, my upbringing in the east instilled in me the value of patience and perseverance. I was taught to appreciate even non-fun, simple, and easy aspects of life. This includes showing equal appreciation for medicine that may not taste nice, textbooks that require diligent reading, chores that take time, diets with restrictions, exercises that may not be fun initially, and relationships that require nurturing.

Small Incremental Progress Over Rapid Results

The western cultural mindset often leans towards achieving immediate results: faster is better. This can be seen in rapid weight loss programs, quick muscle gain techniques, get-rich-quick schemes, and fast food, which despite their allure, often lead to long-term health issues. In contrast, the eastern mindset values gradual and disciplined progress. Even though reaching a desired goal may take longer, the ancillary benefits in terms of patience, focus, determination, discipline, perseverance, and commitment make the long-term effort worthwhile.

Championing Excellence Over Massive Scale

In the west, success is often measured by massive scale: having the most followers on social media, expanding a business globally, becoming a well-known brand, and so forth. However, my eastern upbringing instilled in me the value of excellence. It champions building a reputation for quality and consistent excellence, which is often more valuable than simply seeking fame or scale.

The Significance of Respectful Affection and Addressing

One unique value from my eastern upbringing is the custom of addressing an older person of my parents' age as Auntie and Uncle. This term of affection and respect shows a deeper sense of community and respect for the elderly. It contrasts with the more casual approach of simply addressing someone by their first name. This culturally specific practice highlights the importance of respect, tradition, and affection in building strong relationships.

The values from my eastern upbringing offer a wealth of lessons that can benefit anyone seeking a more balanced and fulfilling life. Whether it is learning to embrace patience and perseverance, valuing small incremental progress, or championing excellence over mass appeal, these values can help us navigate the complexities of modern life with greater wisdom and insight.