So what happens when you immerse yourself in a different culture? Well, you’re likely to pick up some new habits of course.
In this article, we’re exploring some of the interesting habits you’ll likely pick up while living in Germany. Inspired by a video below, we’ll take a look at how everyday life and social norms in Germany can subtly change the way you behave.
Living in Germany comes with its own set of unspoken rules and cultural quirks. From avoiding small talk to following public rules like a pro, you’ll quickly notice that certain behaviors are just part of the flow of life there. It’s not just about learning the language — it’s about adapting to the customs that make Germany, well, German.
The video we’re highlighting offers a fun and relatable take on these habits, helping you understand how they shape social interactions in the country especially compared to Canada, but I find it relatable as well.
Whether you’re planning a move or just curious about the culture, this guide will give you a better sense of what to expect and how to fit in.
Let’s take a look at some of these awesome habits and how they might just rub off on you!
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In the video below, you’ll have an entertaining and insightful look at the everyday habits and cultural quirks you’re likely to adopt if you live in Germany.
Jessalyn, from Canada, shares her personal experiences adjusting to life in Germany, highlighting how German culture subtly shapes her behavior in ways you may not expect. From skipping small talk to following public rules more strictly, you’ll learn how German social norms differ from what you might be used to in other countries.
One of the interesting takeaways is how direct and efficient communication is in Germany. There’s no need for unnecessary small talk, and conversations tend to have more depth. There’s no need to avoid silence at all costs (with no awkwardness attached to it) which sounds quite refreshing to me!
You should watch this video to find out the other habits you might pick or if you’re curious about what everyday life in Germany is like.
It’s not just about learning the language, but understanding the unwritten rules that help you fit in.
Below the video is a summary.
Habits You Will Pick Up In Germany by Get Germanized
This video explores several everyday habits that foreigners often adopt while living in Germany.
Some of these habits include:
- No Small Talk: Germans prefer meaningful conversations over casual chit-chat, especially with strangers. Silence is considered preferable to mindless small talk.
- Suspicion of Overly Friendly Behavior: Jessalyn notes that Germans may see overly friendly behavior as fake or suspicious, contrasting with more open cultures like Canada.
- Making Eye Contact When Clinking Glasses: Jessalyn used to find the direct eye contact unnerving but now enjoys the process (and wants to avoid seven years of bad luck).
- Following Rules Strictly: In Germany, people tend to follow rules like adhering to bike lane markers or waiting at red lights, even late at night when there’s no traffic.
- Quiet in Public Spaces: Being mindful of noise in public places is common, with loud behavior often met with disapproving stares.
These habits offer insights into German cultural norms and the day-to-day behaviors that shape social interactions in the country. The video provides a light-hearted, relatable guide for anyone planning to live in or visit Germany, helping viewers understand what to expect and how to fit in.
Want to learn more about German culture? Find our guide to 6 surprising things that are against the law here, 10 ways to pretend you are German here and things you should never do in Germany here. You can also find all our guides to German culture here.
