I heard a Norwegian give a comparison of the Norwegian and American attitudes regarding work, Norwegians work to live while Americans live to work. In other words Norwegians work so they can pay for their fun and play while Americans strive to work as much as possible making work their life.
I took a few moments to ponder the saying and have to say it harbors at least some truth which is evident in the respective work cultures. Norwegians are hard efficient workers but they love to take advantage of their five weeks (minimum) of holidays/vacation time. Conversely it has almost become a competition among Americans to see who uses the least amount of holiday/vacation time.
I found the statement to be interesting and cause for thought.
You'd like to think there'd be a reasonable middle ground, though leaning the Norwegian way, LOL. I definitely see that in the corporate culture and the company, which I won't name but you know which it is, I work for. I'm "too old" now to seriously be considered for fast track promotional paths, but I do see the company taking advantage of guys with a lot of potential in the 20's and 30's and working them to death, or so it seems.
ReplyDeleteThe whole work thing is pretty interesting, great for conversation. I see pluses and minuses for each "side."
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