I’m a Southeast Asian 25F working in a big traditional Japanese company. One thing I notice from male colleagues when we first met is that almost all of them wore their wedding rings. They only wore them on that first day, and I did not see them wearing wedding rings any other occasions.
The first person I noticed doing so was my current direct leader. I took it as he tried to create a man-of-family, trustworthy image and praised him for that to my friend, to which she replied: “Or maybe it was just him secretly told you that he’s married, so if you ever think of getting closer to him for permanent visa than just quit it.”
I thought she just overthought it and laughed it off but the idea kinda stuck in my head. Then I realize that almost all Japanese male colleagues, especially the old ones, do the same when they have to work with me. I started doubting whether what my friend said is the truth. If so, it would be somewhat upsetting. Personally, the thought of marrying a Japanese for visa has never crossed my mind. I have been used to being looked down on and stereotyped despite my efforts dedicated to studying and building my career, but still…
Am I just overthinking it like my friend?
by Agreeable-Elephant45