ICM 1st semester Bcs Reflective writting- sample

 

 

 

 

 

INTERCULTURAL MANAGEMENT

Individual Reflective Writing

SEPTEMBER 2024

 

 

NAME
STUDENT ID
PROGRAM
SEMESTER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                                          

The Hofstede cultural dimension model has helped me to  evaluate my character, strength and development area. Through this course and the various projects I worked on, I was able to identify my strengths and challenges - from the perspective of the Hofstede model. This has helped me understand how the cultural background and the environment around me can affect my behavior and attitude.

Strengths-

Collectivism - I naturally lean toward collectivism, valuing teamwork and shared goals. As a Newar, I have experienced how high collectivism strengthens cultural and societal bonds, particularly during community traditions like bhoj (feasts) and cultural events. I also think that respecting our societal norms and collective wisdom helps us grow as individuals and as a community.

Masculinity- My competitive side really pushes me to work harder and reach for bigger goals. I enjoy challenges that test my abilities, as they give me a sense of purpose and accomplishment. I also value success not just for personal gain but as a way to make meaningful contributions. For example, I enjoy situations where healthy competition allows me to prove my skills, such as completing projects under tight deadlines or solving complex problems.

 

Challenges-

Power Distance - I highly value power distance and respect hierarchies, which can sometimes make it difficult for me to express myself openly. While I try to balance this by being approachable to my juniors, my focus on hierarchy can sometimes limit to  open communication with the higher ups.

Uncertainty Avoidance - I have a tendency to avoid over-planning or worrying too much about the future, which makes me adaptable and flexible. However, this can backfire to myself when I am in a situation which need a tight planning from the start and I can’t give my best at the moment.

Restraint - Being both Hindu and Newar, I have to follow traditions and cultural duties, especially during festivals which is great and I love it  but this also means I sometimes ignore my own needs and don’t take enough time for myself which can be challenging sometimes.

 

Short-Term Orientation - I often prioritize short-term goals and quick results over long-term strategies. While this helps me see immediate progress, it sometimes limits my ability to think about sustained long term success or the bigger picture.

 

Areas for Improvement

Looking at  the Hofstede model and thinking about changes I need to make personally, I think I should focus on addressing my low uncertainty avoidance and building proper routines to better manage tasks and reduce last-minute stress. I need to find a better balance between respecting tradition and taking time for self-care. Finally, I should try to build more confidence and communicate more openly while still maintaining respect.

 

 

 

 

A Comparison of two different Cultures Using the Hofstede Model through my experience

During an organizational meeting, I interacted with a diverse group, including European, Asian and  several Chinese participants. This experience provided an opportunity to observe cultural differences through Hofstede’s dimensions.

And Here’s a comparison of European and Nepalese cultures:

Hofstede Dimension	European Culture	Nepalese Culture
Power Distance	Felt low power distance, with a casual and equal atmosphere among peers.	High power distance, with strong emphasis on hierarchy and authority.
Individualism vs. Collectivism	Prefers individual experiences and personal goals over group.	Focuses on collectivism, with a strong sense of teamwork and community involvement.
Masculinity vs. Femininity	More competitive and success-oriented.	More masculine, with focus to achievement and  success.
Uncertainty Avoidance	More structured, likes to plan everything in advance and avoids ambiguity.	Flexible, adaptable approach, and less structured when facing uncertainty.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Orientation	Often prioritizes short-term results, with a focus on quick outcomes and immediate gratification.	Focused on short-term goals, with more emphasis on immediate results.
Indulgence vs. Restraint	More expressive ,prioritizing enjoyment of the present.	More restrained, with a focus on duty, traditions, and less focus own self .

 

Meme Corner 🎭

Because let’s be honest—what’s life without a little laughter?

Here are the example given below  of every  dimensions of Hofstede’s Model according to my experience.

Power Distance

Example 1: In my family, the power distance is quite high. I have a deep respect for my elders, and I know I can't and shouldn't speak directly or frankly to them. I must maintain that power distance by being more formal and respectful in my communication.

 

Individualism vs. Collectivism

Example 1: In my culture, we value collectivism. For instance, during bhoj (feasts) and jatra (festivals), we invite all our relatives, and vice versa . We don't focus on individual preferences or achievements, but rather on building and maintaining strong relation  and I really appreciate this aspect of my culture.

Example 2: I met a European guy during the meeting who seemed more individualistic. He enjoyed traveling and experiencing things on his own, prioritizing personal goals and experiences over group-oriented activities. He seemed focused on himself rather than the group, which reflects individualism.

 

Masculinity vs. Femininity

Example 1 In my community, there's a strong focus on masculinity. Success, competition, and achievement are highly valued. People are often judged by how much they've accomplished, whether in work or academics.

Example 2 From what I have seen, boys and girls are often separated and given roles based on gender. Boys are expected to take on leadership, while girls are assigned more domestic tasks.

 

Indulgence vs. Restraint

            Example 1:  In my community, there’s a focus on restraint, with people prioritizing duties over indulgence. Even during festivals, the emphasis is more on maintaining traditions than on personal enjoyment.

 

Uncertainty Avoidance

Example 1:   In my community, people are comfortable with uncertainty. Even when working on a project, I noticed that everyone was flexible and didn’t worry too much about the unknown.

Example 2: The same European guy whom I met was much more structured and liked to plan everything in advance. He seemed uncomfortable with uncertainty which was very different from the flexible approach I’m used to.

 

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Orientation

Example 1: In my community, people focus on short-term results, making decisions based on immediate returns. I see this in my own life too, whether it’s choosing courses, things I do, or spending habits, with little thought for long-term consequences.

Example 2: The European guy I met was the complete opposite. He had everything planned out for his future, prioritizing long-term goals, which was a huge contrast to my usual mindset.

 

 

 

Fun Facts 🤓

"Most of the things you fear will never happen. Studies show 85% of what we worry about doesn’t come true. Fear is just false evidence appearing real."