Anecdotally Speaking 262 – What We Walk Past
Aug 18, 2025
A minor train delay in Japan ignites a fascinating discussion about accountability and professional standards. Creative problem-solving takes center stage as the speakers highlight how innovation can grow from ordinary experiences. Everyday storytelling emerges as a powerful tool for inspiring excellence in business. Cultural insights on punctuality and public apologies reveal striking differences between Japan and Sydney, emphasizing the importance of communication in global contexts.
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Train Delay That Revealed Culture
- Mark recounts a Western executive in Tokyo apologising publicly for a train being 25 seconds late.
- The tiny apology highlighted how small behaviours signal broader cultural standards.
Near Enough Becomes The Norm
- Small tolerated behaviours become the new organisational standard if leaders 'walk past' them.
- The group realised many everyday actions were undermining the culture they claimed to value.
Cleaning Crew As Commuter Entertainment
- Sean tells of cleaners in pink uniforms who performed a choreographed cleaning routine between trains.
- The routine turned a wait into entertainment and reframed passenger annoyance as delight.