Cultural Pressures of Leaving Work

In many Asian workplaces, leaving the office on time is often viewed as a sign of disengagement or lack of dedication. This phenomenon, referred to as 'wu heng xià bàn,' reflects a culture where employees feel compelled to remain at their desks even after completing their tasks to avoid being perceived as lazy. Employees sometimes wait until higher-ups leave to follow suit, reinforcing a culture of presenteeism that can take a toll on mental health and well-being. Such cultural dynamics lead to anxiety surrounding timely departures, creating a paradox where working longer hours can be perceived as more commendable than actually completing work efficiently within scheduled hours.