If I had to sum it up in one phrase, I’d say: you’re truly recognized and appreciated.

Clients leave reviews and give feedback on my work. My managers actually see what I do and reflect that in things like my pay and time off. My coworkers are honest too—they’ll tell me both the good and the bad. And there’s a real understanding that family comes first. When you say it out loud, it might all sound pretty normal. But in Japan, those “normal” things weren’t always allowed. I often felt overwhelmed with work, and even simple things like taking a trip or going to a friend’s wedding depended on how my boss was feeling. It wasn’t always easy to prioritize my personal life. I do think work culture in Japan has been improving lately, and it’s becoming easier to work there than before. Still, I feel like there are a lot of challenges, especially in smaller businesses like salons.

There are many great things about working in the U.S., but for me, it’s being in an environment where you’re recognized, where your opinions are respected, and where that’s just considered normal—that’s what makes working here so appealing.