How To Find a Job in Japan Fast For Native English Speakers (Links, Tips, Advice, and Details)

Finding a job in Japan is easy yet also very competitive too depending on where you are living and the location of the school you'd like to teach at.
The busier the area the lower the pay. Major cities like Tokyo are full of foreigners most are still non-native English speakers however when Americans, British people, New Zealanders and even Australians (etc.) do choose to live or work in Japan, whether it be longterm or temporarily, Tokyo is usually their first pick.  Because of this there are arguably more people willing to teach English than there are positions available. This all balances out though because "life" happens. People lie on their resumes, visas expire,  family emergencies happen and foreigners get homesick or even divorced!
The pay varies significantly. You can get paid as little as ¥900 yen an hour and as much as ¥4000 an hour.
There's usually a catch to both. Lower pay like ¥900 usually equals more flexible work days and hours OR longer hours those collectively more pay by the end of the day. Higher pay like ¥4000 yen an hour almost always means you'll only work 1-3 hours and possibly only once or twice a week.


This article will focus on native English speakers. If you are a non-native English speakers please read here....How To Find A Job for Non-Native Speakers

Everything that you need to know...

The Myths

The Pay is Low/Terrible

The average Japanese person makes between 3-4 million yen a month. The average schools pays about 2.5-3 million a month. If you don't have a degree, are inexperienced, or previously worked a retail job in America this is a huge pay raise for you! I wouldn't be complaining. 

Japan is Expensive

Housing in Japan is a little expensive for the initial move in costs but the monthly rent and utilities is very low in comparison to America if you lived in or near a major city like most Americans.  My rent is only $330 USD and my electric bill ranges between only $4-$5 USD!

Groceries are more expensive but you can save money by purchasing discounted foods at night and freezing them. Consider making pot roasts, and slow cooker meals to stretch your money.

Non-native Speakers Can't Work in Japan 

I was the only native speaker at both of my previous jobs. All of my coworkers are non-native speakers! They all have visa sponsorship through my workplace, their schools, or their spouse. It is hard but it is definitely possible to find a position

Only White People Can Teach English

I am clearly not white but a black woman. I will admit that I believe colorist and attractiveness plays a major role in Japan. My dark and brown skin friends and coworkers have been met with racial slurs and jokes from both companies and students alike. I would say only "attractive" people can but this is also untrue as the majority of people that I have worked with and seen working where old, obese, and well... a bit rough looking.

You Can't Work on a Student Visa

You can legally work with student visa. All you have to do is ask your school for some help and simply fill out an application in English and take it to the immigration office. It takes a few weeks for them to prepare everything. Upon approval you will receive a stamp on the back of your residence card. You can work up to 28 hours part-time per a week doing anything besides nightlife work.

You Don't Need a Visa

In all honesty most places don't check visas, references, certifications, or information about your previous job or residencies. I don't recommend lying but it is commonly done here. You reap what you sow. Your lies will catch up to you eventually! It feels so much better to do things that right way and to be honest as much as possible. We all make mistakes but telling lies about your employment history or visa status is not something that you want to fabricate. Before you know it you'll find yourself caught in a web jobless and potentially banned from Japan for anywhere from 2 years to life!

Your Employer Can Cancel Your Visa

Even if you get fired or quit your employer cannot cancel your visa only immigration can. As long as you are working an appropriate job for your visa status and obeying the laws here you can change jobs as much as you'd like to. If you go a significant amount of time without working/being employed you may find yourself in a "gray area" with your visa situation. You can switch residence/visa statuses and you can change sponsors.

You are an employee not a slave! Sometimes it is hard to believe this.

Now that we have discussed the major myths and white lies about Japan let's talk about the more important things...

You Need Experience

While some places will appreciate your honesty most will turn you down or pick someone else over you because you lack teaching experience. Having a degree is a HUGE advantage! Having a degree in education is an even bigger advantage (I will go into detail about this and more things you should know about interviewing in Japan here).
If you don't already have experience volunteer! Consider starting your own online and in person lessons from home and at local cafes. Make connections with your friends here. Both Japanese and foreigners usually know someone who works as a teacher, that owns an eikaiwa, or that is looking for a language tutor. Experience is not just good for your resume but it prepares you for the actual job.
If possible try to obtain experience in a wide range of ages.

A lot of the jobs that are available here have pretty ridiculous wants and expectations. Many employers ask for several years of teaching experience music, theater, and dance backgrounds and many more outrageous requests. They often don't even offer visa sponsorship! This is usually a requirement although most places will still accept applicants that do not meet their ridiculous needs.

Become Japanese

Many school are weary of hiring or even interviewing applicants that do not have at least some or all of the following things...

• Japanese phone number
• Professional looking email address (your first and last name only)
• Hanko stamp with your chosen kanji or katakana signature
• Japanese bank account
• Permanent personal address (such as your own apartment in your name)

The more official things that you have in your name here the higher your chances of finding a job will be. Employers expect you to quit and go back to your home country so the more things that you have in your name as solid evidence of your intentions to work and live and hopefully become a Japanese citizen the happier your employer will be.

Have Some Knowledge of Japanese Students/Culture and Language

Interviewers love it when I tell them that I'm familiar with the difficulties that students have here with pronouncing "L", "R", "B", "V", and "TH" sounds, as well as understanding how shy they are with speaking loud or as the rest of the world calls it at a normal indoor voice tone. It's such a basic and obvious statement to make and to be honest everyone should know this and be aware of it simply from listening to people speak English here but you'd be amazed at how many people don't know this or don't think to restate the obvious.

Introduce Yourself

Put together a simple generic template-style personal letter, email, cover letter, and resume. Having this put together in advance will be very helpful as you can quickly pull up the file by name print copies or send them electronically whenever it is needed.

General Advice

Grammar

Be sure to check your spelling and punctuation especially if you are not a native English speaker or if you are a native speaker but English isn't your forte. Keep in mind that if you are Canadian, British or Australian you should use American English when writing or typing and of possible try your best to fake an accent when speaking. Some jobs don't care if you sound American or not but most do!
It will be hard to trust your teaching skills if your writing is full of errors.

1. Check your spelling
2. Always use proper English 
3. Use capitalization
4. Use an appropriate greeting and closing for every email that you send 
5. Avoid using slang of any kind as much as possible when writing

Labeling 

Every resume related file and every email that you send should have a title. This makes it easy to search for it when you need it again both for you and your potential employer. This will also help emails avoid being sent to spam and is helpful for Japanese employers who may not always understand all of the contents of your message. Be sure to use a clear, short and simple subject.

Location 

The further away you move from major cities such as Tokyo the less competitive job positions are. country side areas and less touristy cities offer high pay, better benefits, and easier interviews as the schools are less picky and more desperate. This can also be beneficial to non-native speakers as most schools would rather have someone than no one to teach their classes. If you are a native English speaker than this is a huge advantage for you.
If you don't already live in Japan consider applying to schools in different prefectures. If you live in Japan consider moving to a different prefecture or at least to a suburban area.
There are thousands of schools who don't have public advertisements on trains, searchable websites or social media pages. Don't be afraid to walk inside of an international school and ask about their opening.

Be Cautious

If something feels a bit off don't do it! Trust your gut and follow your tuition. Be sure to get detailed contact information such as employer names and addresses, as well as the direct link to the school before sending over copies of your passport, visa or certifications. This is Japan but as an English teacher you will find yourself dealing with a lot of Europeans and occasionally Americans and Canadians all of which are generally less trustworthy. Have you guard up and ask questions and request link or a phone call before sending anything personal.
If possible request that copies of your personal items be made after or during the interview in person.

Email Tips: 

• Always create a clear subject for each message
• Double check your grammar and punctuation
• Use a greeting and a "thank you" of some kind for the closing
• Reply ASAP. employers will thank you for such a quick response even if it takes them days to reply to your messages

Personal Statement: 

Greet the employer and express your interest in the job that you are applying for. Briefly summarize your resume highlighting your education and experience. Be sure to mention your visa status. This can be copied and pasted into the body of your email. your resume and cover letter should be attached by 2 separate files. Be sure to copy and paste your photographs to the bottom of your resume. Your professional business headshot should be at the very top next to your name and address.
Japan is full of photo booths made for this. Passport photos from Walgreens work great too! IF you don't have access to either use your cellphones timer or ask a friend to take a picture of you in business attire while standing against a white wall.
Your personal letter is very similar to your cover letter but not the same. It should be a summary and mention a few things that neither your resume nor cover letter does such as your visa status.

Cover Letter Tips:

Explain why you want this job and why they should hire you over the next gaijin! It's okay to brag and show off here, but make it sounds sweet and a little humble if you can. Be sure to makes hints about your experience.
Be sure to list the following.....

• Your full name 
• Address
• Phone Number(s)
• Email Address
• Address the reader
• Explain why you would be great for this job
• Thank the employer

Resume Tips:

It's okay to use the old fashioned copy and past out line for your resume. Regardless of the dates I recommend putting any experience related to teaching at the top of the work experience section in order from most to least impressive. You should stress your education and volunteer experiences.

Be sure to list the following.....

• Your full name 
• Address
• Phone Number(s)
• Email Address
• Education
• Grade Point Average 
• Degree/diploma
• Certifications
• Work Experience and Location
• Job Descriptions
• Skills 
• Volunteer and Recreational Work

Be a Little Extra

Say Cheese

Japanese people LOVE all things sealed and official and what better way to do this than to have photographs and or videos demonstrating your teaching experience?! Employers are always very surprised when I send them photographs of my teaching and volunteer experiences. The photos don't have to be edited and flattering like I prefer natural "bad" pictures of you really enjoying yourself in the moment is a guaranteed way to land that job before you even interview for the position.

I Choose You

The only thing better than photographs that show and therefore prove your experience is to have employers, managers and even coworkers who can write letters of recommendation with their phone number and email included. It's not common practice for Japanese employers to call your previous job to check out your experiences as an English teacher (I have worked many jobs and nobody has ever done so even at the restaurant, cleaning and cafe jobs that I have had). If you are planning to leave your previous place of work on good terms consider nicely asking them to do type a nice letter for you and to send it via email, preferably on official paper with a signature but anything will do.
There is a 90% chance that they won't actually call but it looks great to have this "on your resume".

Where To Apply

I have personally used all of these websites to land jobs and interviews in Japan. Everyone will have a different experience. Job openings come and go and so do employees! Be sure to check these websites frequently for listings and positions. Your objective is to email as many companies as possible and you will eventually land the job that you desire. something is always better than nothing and if you have no experience consider the low pay as an add on for your future resume. You can always quit and switch jobs later! 

Here's how to Increase your chances of receiving a reply, interview or a job offer...

• Send a resume with a professional and clear attached photograph of yourself
• Live in the city that you are applying for the position in
• Have a bachelor's degree or higher
• Have experience teaching any subject but preferably English paid or unpaid
• Have a valid visa that allows permission to work
• Have 3 years or more of teaching experience
• Be under the age of 40 
• Be a native English speaker from America
• Be physically attractive
• Have open availability including nights and weekends
• Be single/unmarried (this is mostly for women as employers fear that you'll quit once pregnant)
• No family (this is almost synonymous with being single)

Old Reliable

Unless you have been living under a rock you are probably aware of Gaijin Pot and Craigslist. Craigslist is a great website to browse if you're in a pinch and need to find a job ASAP.  Gaijin Pot listings provide much more information about the place that you are applying to and most jobs here offer high pay and visa sponsorship however the positions are very competitive on Gaijin Pot. Use caution when replying to Craigslist ads. Don't be afraid to ask questions, request names, phone numbers and links to company websites to assure that it isn't an elaborate scam of some sort. Craigslist ads usually offer low pay or unstable work but there are plenty of good positions both full and part-time and some even offer visa sponsorship for successful applicants.

Craigslist

https://tokyo.craigslist.jp/
https://osaka.craigslist.jp/

Gaijin Pot 

https://jobs.gaijinpot.com/index/index/lang/en

Visa Sponsorship

While these two schools have very mixed and possibly mostly negative reviews they are the two easiest gate ways into Japan. They both voluntarily offer visa sponsorship, accommodation and travel expenses to Japan. These are within the top 5 language schools in Japan for adults. They have fairly low requirements and tend to hire large groups of people as the turnover rate is extremely high at both of these schools. Remember you can always switch jobs later. Both of these companies accept applicants that do not live in Japan, can't speak Japanese, and that have no teaching experience. Most schools in Japan would throw out your application after reading all of that!

NOVA
http://nova-holdings.jp/teachinjapan/

GABA
https://www.gabateachinginjapan.com

Other Employers

Most of these companies and school listing do offer sponsorship but not always! Nichibei is a very popular language school located all over Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo. Guidable Jobs and Jobs in Japan are bulletin boards fro employers to post positions that need to be filled. Generally they conduct massive interviews so you can choose the exact date and time for your actual interview. The salary, companies direct website/name, company photographs, visa sponsorship and job requirements are all generally clearly listed here.

Nichibei English Service

http://teach.nichibei-job.com

Guidable Jobs

https://jobs.guidable.co

Interac 

https://www.interacnetwork.com/recruit/

Jobs In Japan

https://jobsinjapan.com

Japan Work

https://www.japan-work.com/job_offers

RCS

http://rcs-ed.co.jp/en/index.html

AOBA-Japan International School

 https://www.japaninternationalschool.com

English Innovations

https://english-innovations.com

Heart School

http://www.heart-school.jp

AEON

http://www.aeonet.com

Be Your Own Boss

Consider creating an online profile and teaching your own private students. You can decide your pay, availability, who, where and what you will teach. While you can't use private lessons as a way of sponsoring your own visa it most certainly helps out if you are lacking experience, need some extra income or simply want to perfect your craft. After creating your profile you just sit back and await your replies from potential students who want to book a trial lesson. Trial lessons are usually free or discounted anywhere from¥500-¥1500. Once your finished with your profile you will just need to update it about once a month or less to stay relevant in searches from potential new students. Be sure to choose your best most flattering photos and provide a good description of what you have to offer to attract more students. Looks re just about everything here in Japan. It can either be in your favor if you were blessed with good looks or it can be a bit depressing if you are lacking in the "looks department".

Hello-Sensei

https://hello-sensei.com

Find Students. Net

https://www.findstudents.net

My-Sensei

http://www.my-sensei.com/sensei/

Miscellaneous

This website offers links to international/English schools with the purpose of helping foreign families find dual education for their children upon moving to Japan however this is a great website to use for quickly finding legitimate school that are usually hiring year around and in a constant need of native English speaking teachers.

All Japan Relocation

https://www.alljapanrelocation.com


Gaijin Pot, NOVA, and Gaba are your 3 best bets if you are not currently living in Japan. Please also keep in in mind that living in Japan is great but if you live in Tokyo and you are applying for a job in Osaka most schools will trash your application or wait until you actually drive before requesting an interview of any kind.

Open and flexible availability is crucial especially if you are seeking visa sponsorship. Nobody wants to hire someone who isn't available during peak business hours. Most language schools receive 95% of their business Monday-Friday from 4:00PM-9:00PM as students are out of school and salary men and career women are finished with work. Most schools are closed during the weekend as Japanese people prefer to keep all of their business and studying on weekdays. Nobody wants to waste their Saturdays studying English with tutor! However depending on the company Saturday can be a busy day for them so your availability during this time is mandatory.

Some schools will offer vacation and sick days (paid or unpaid). Other schools are still open during the holidays meaning that you will be expected to work during this time.

Interview

Purchase a cheap and simple outfit that is versatile and that can be designated for future interviews. I recommend shopping at Target, Old Navy, Payless, Shimamura, and UNIQLO (if you are in Japan). Cheap doesn't have to mean ugly, bad quality and unfashionable.
Remember you want to buy comfortable clothing and shoes and modest outfits because you will constantly be walking and running up and down streets and stairs. You will be on trains standing and sitting, sweating, speaking in front of groups of people and at times chest to chest with total strangers.

Be mindful of where you are. This is Japan so you should abide by the rules here and try your best to assimilate and fit in with normal Japanese staff and workers regardless of your personal opinions about clothing, makeup, body art, hair, and piercings you should be respectful of their culture. This is not the time place or country to "be different" or "creative".
Of course every school and company is different but when in doubt it's always best to go with the flow. No company will complain about you NOT having a 6ft beard and no tats but you are risking having your application and resume tossed in the trashcan if you do!

You will do practically no speaking the employer will just talk to you about the school, their expectations and explain what's in it for you. You will then typically be asked to talk about your work experience, why or what you like about Japan and if you have any questions.

Interview Do's and Don'ts.....

Wear It

• Business professional clothing
• A clean white colored blouse or dress shirt with a collar
• Black navy-blue or gray dress pants or a women's business suit
• A shiny solid blue colored tie (this is recommended for interviews in Japan)
• A nice watch it doesn't have to be expensive but it should look
• A nice leather handbag
• Modest jewelry (small diamond earrings etc.)
• A modest hairstyle with visible eyes (men should be clean shaven men NO facial hair not even a mustache is acceptable)
• Modest natural looking makeup (its okay for men to wear makeup too!)
• Comfortable Chunky Heels
• Comfortable Dress Shoes

Don't Wear

• Sunglasses/Shades
• Hats/Scarves
• Western Style makeup (eyeshadow, cat eye, unnatural colored lipstick,fake brows or lashes)
• Mini skirts/dresses
• Open toe shoes  
• Tight fitting-clothing
• Stilletos (sexy heels) 
• Gym-Shoes/Sneakers
• Colorful/kiddie/kawaii/gothic or anime looking accessories
• Colored Hair
• Exotic piercings ( one earring per an earlobe no facial or body piercings should be visible!)

Cover Up

• Your breasts!
• Your legs
• Your tattoos

Don't

• Arrive late
• Come in with food or beverages in hand or a visible bag (this includes coffee and tea)
• Use your phone unless you have asked if its okay to set a reminder or to take notes by phone 
• Use profanity or slang
• Talk about video games, cosplay, anime, pop music, fashion etc. too much (don't seem obsessed that is)
• Be rude or disrespectful
• Wear your shoes inside (check to see if theres a sign asking fro you to remove your shoes or a shelving area for shoes to be placed and slippers put on
• Wear long acrylic nails or colored nail-polish besides clear
• Yell at the students or lose your temper
• Speak Japanese! Most schools hate or ban this as parents will complain. A full immersion experience is preferred 
• Be afraid to reschedule your interview if you are sick or running late!

Do

• Eat breakfast
• Brush your teeth and use a good mouthwash
• Clean and trim your nails 
• Bathe with neutral smelling soap
• Wear deodorant
• Bring a travel sized umbrella
• Ask the interviewer questions
• Shake hands and greet everyone you encounter warmly
• Thank the interviewer and express your interests in the company
• Talk about your longterm plans of living and working in Japan
• Talk about your fiancé or spouse (shows that you have plans to stay in the country longterm)
• Call or Email them if you will be late and give an overestimate of your expected arrival time
• Apologize profusely if you are late and issue that this is not a usual occurrence 
• Use your manners
• Use proper English when speaking or writing
• Be honest about your experience, qualifications, home country and personal life
• Talk about your interest and share photographs of things you have done in Japan temples, food you've eaten or meals you have cooked etc.
• Ask for a landmark, directions, and a phone number should you get lost
• Wear clean socks/pantyhose as you will probably have to remove your shoes upon entry
• Aks for help if you need it
• Remain professional even if things go wrong or the staff is not friendly
• Expect seemingly inappropriate comments about your personal life, appearance, family plans

Show Them

• Your smile
• How articulate you are
• Your friendliness
• Your ability to listen
• Your intelligence
• Your degree/certificates

Be sure to select a time and date that will work for you. if you are going to a new location it's best to make a trial run to figure out where exactly is the school and how long it takes to get there.  

DO NOT arrive more than 15 minutes before the interview as they might not be ready for you and could possibly be in the process of interviewing other potential candidates. this upset an interviewer that I had had. I only arrived 10 minutes early and well he was pissed!

You can choose to work an IT, office or restaurant job if you wish but pay is general lower and the work is just as stressful.

The Big Bad Demo

Ahh the moment that nobody was waiting for the demo lesson! It's okay to feel nervous and shy about presenting your lesson whether it be online via Skype or in person. It is a nerve wrecking experience for most. I know its hard but try your best not to worry about it! Remember you are the native speaker and you are the language expert! 

I recommend watching some YouTube videos for inspiration and reading some lesson plans for kindergartners or 1st graders in America. Keep your lesson short sweet and simple! Your demo lesson can be as short as 15 minutes or as long as 1 hour depending on the school. Most jobs request a 20-30 minute demo lesson for a classroom of about 20-25 kids.

My current job only requested a 3 minute lesson!

Your employer will typically and secretly judge you based on these five things...

1. Your voice projection and presentation
2. Clarity and speed of voice
3. Creativity/fun
4. Ease of understanding presented materials
5. Timeliness

Speak loud and clear so that everyone in the room can hear you. You should seem genuinely happy (big smile!). 

Don't increase your speed! Please try your best to speak with a clear accent and slowly so that you can be understood remember English is not their first language.

Employers love teachers who can incorporate songs, games, crafts and dances into their lessons

Your lesson should be easy to follow for someone who doesn't speak English. Think of charades! Again hand gestures, body movements, songs, videos and flash cards are your best friend.

Try to start and end your lesson promptly. Its okay to end your trial lesson a little early but try to avoid going over the allotted time or ending too early. Ask your potential employer if it's okay to end the lesson a little bit early before you start and hopefully as you show them what you have prepared.

Tips:

• It may seem over the top to have to put on a circus show for your students for both the demo lesson and possibly for future lessons too but you should keep in mind that companies are taking a risk by hiring you as there is a 90% chance that you will quit before your contract is up, or simply be a bad teacher. Their goal is to weed out potentially bad teachers.

• You may think that you aren't being paid so why go through so much for your interview or demo lesson but adding fun activities such as videos to watch and songs to sing and dance to will help you kill the trial lesson time.

• If you speak slowly and clearly and review vocabulary and practice dance movies or quietly listen to the songs before singing and dancing this will also help to kill time.

• You will earn some serious brownie points if you bring your own lesson materials and notes for the demo lesson as this shows your level of seriousness and professionalism.

• I would suggest using a simple topic that's easy to teach such as emotions, colors, or days of the week. Most schools will allow you to use their supplies and materials if you arrive early and simply ask them if it is okay to do so.

Salary & Hours

This is a simple estimate for the amount of pay that you can expect to receive. Some people are paid more others less. Unfortunately most schools don't offer higher pay for more experience or for even having a degree! You will simply be given priority as an applicant. The good thing is that if you don't have a degree this won't necessarily mean you'll have a reduced salary.

General Full-Time Hours

Full-time positions don't usually include weekends. You will usually always have a two day weekend every week.

Most public and private schools will schedule you weekdays from about 8:00AM-5:00PM.

Language and cram schools will schedule you weekdays from about 3:00PM-9:00PM.

Weekend hours are usually limited to morning and afternoons only typically 10:00AM-3:00PM.

Average Salary

Part-time hourly ¥2,100

Full-time hourly ¥3,000

Part-time Salaried ¥150,000

Full-time Salaried ¥260,000 (this varies between  ¥250,000-¥300,000)

What's Next

Most employers will offer you the job on the spot immediately after a successful interview. Occasionally you will receive an email within a week.

In Japan contracts are normal! If your company offers you a 1-3 year contract it's totally normal so don't freak out. In America contracted employment is seen in a mostly negative light but here having a contract is preferred over a fragile "You're hired!!! Can you start today?". Contracts offer clarity of your job position, pay and expectations, as well as support assurance and security of the position that you have obtained.

Unfortunately most employers don't offer maternity or paternity leave. If your employer does it is probably unpaid. It is fairly taboo for a woman to continue working after starting family.

Single mothers are hard to find and not open about this.

Ideas of feminism is general unwelcome and "taboo" in Japan.

If you didn't get the job there's thousands of other places to apply to and dozens of new schools opening every year! Don't give up on your dream of teaching in Japan.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope that you found this information very useful. I wish you the best of luck in your search for a job in Japan! Please leave a review, comments, or suggestions that you may have below so that you can help other people who are interested in working and living in Japan too.

Any help or advice is appreciated!

Stay Tuned!

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PROQUALITE Japanese Hair Relaxer /Permanent Straightener English Review

プロカリテロング

If you've lived in Japan for a full year or at least if you have endured the summer here then you know just how humid, hot and unbearable the tropical island weather its here. As a girl with super curly hair my hair is very prone to frizz, flyaway, and puffiness if I try to wear any hairstyle that isn't curly.
I spend hours blowdrying, flat ironing, combing, and moisturizing my hair with expensive oils in an attempt to tame my mane and keep all of my curls straight.
Recently I began walking slowly and moving my bangs from my face and tying my hair up into a ponytail to cut back on the frizz from my sweat. Yes this dead help out a lot but my hair wouldn't stay straight. Even after styling hair it would still have too much volume (a strange amount of thickness of you will) before I'd even leave out the house for work. I accepted the fact that the only time I could have straight hair was during the winter time.

My Natural Hair

I struggled with getting my curly hair straight in America too but usually if I just waited 3-7 days my hair would accumulate enough oils and become "dirty" enough were frizz and humidity had no affect on my strands. I finally had enough and began searching for a "PERM-anent" (get it) solution. My mother and half-sisters warned me of all of the dangers about using relaxers and so did my friends and even strangers. Every black person knows countless people with practically no hair, invisible edges, or at least some sort of horror story to tell about their use of relaxers i the past.
Ever since I was a child I envied my classmates who had relaxers. Once I went to school with all white people, this interest became even stronger. By the time I got to high school it was no longer because I wanted to look like or fit in with the crowd, but I simply agreed with the fact that straight hair made me look more attractive. It frames my face and fit my overall look better than curly hair did.
When I was 9 years old I joined a dance group at my church called "Kids Stuff". For my first performance my oldest half-sister offered to straighten my hair and put it into two long pigtails. My mom was opposed to the idea of this and protected my hair for almost 10 years but eventually caved in. I was instantly in love with how much longer my hair was. I was fascinated with how easy it was to style, manipulate and for the first time to run my fingers through my strands. At just 10 years old I began straightening and blowdrying my own hair religiously everyday. Sometimes I would do this multiple times a day. I know it wasn't healthy for my hair but I loved the way I looked with straight hair.
I tried to go natural but I didn't like the way it made me look. People are never satisfied with what they've got. As humans its natural to want whatever it is that we don't have.

Since I already spend hours a days styling my hair to make it straight or to curl it because I can't get it straight I decided to go against her advice once more and just get a relaxer, but not just any relaxer a relaxer that's not made for people like me and that's written in instructions that I honestly can't read.
I was very scared and I felt as though I were losing my hair virginity but I am glad that I took the plunge and went for it!

The Review

Proqualite does work! I am a black woman with super curly hair and I finished my hair in under 3 hours. If it worked for me it can definitely work for the Asian or European girl reading this as your hair is much easier to chemically straighten than mines.
This product was not intended for use on hair that is so far from being straight nor is it made for people with coarse or very thick hair (like me). It's a miracle and straightened my hair! I am now on day 2 as I am writing this and it didn't become stiff as some reviews said.

My boyfriend who is 100% Japanese and has naturally wavy hair told me that both and his sister attempted to use this product under the supervision of their cousin who is a hairstylist and it made both of their hair more curly instead straightening it! I myself a non-Japanese woman gave it a try and to my surprise it worked! I have nothing to compare this to so I can't say that it's better than perms in America but if you were to ask me I think its better to use a relaxer that is made for black women or curly hair styles (even if you're Asian/white with curly or wavy hair).
Being in Japan with limited options I settled for what I could find and I chose this brand as it claims to be "#1" and from food to beauty products everything else I've purchased here that has that label has yet to disappoint me (I recently got some scrumptious karaage seasoning that claims to be #1 and it mad the most delicious pork-chops the other day lol!).

NOTE: I believe the product didn't work for their hair because like most Japanese (Asian) people they wash their hair every time that they shower, thus they permed their hair after it had already been cleansed. This is NOT the right way to use a relaxer!

You should start with hair that is already dirty and preferably that has been straightened in advance and detangled. I recommend going 1-2 weeks without washing or using a dry shampoo (if you have very curly hair) or at the very least 3 days without having had a wash  (if you have slight wavy frizzy hair) before using PROQUALITE depending on your hair type.

Where Can I Buy It?

I had trouble finding this at local stores here in Osaka. I went to several pharmacies, the mall, konbini shops and even grocery stores with no luck of ANY straightening products. I decided to just buy it from Amazon Japan.
You can buy it from Amazon or at your local pharmacy if you live in Japan!

Buy PROQUALITE Now!

Here Is Their website!

PROQUALITE Official Website

How Much Does It Cost?

I paid ¥1136 for this so it costs about $11 USD from within Japan. If you are purchasing this online from America it is about $9.55-$10.00 USD. Buy PROQUALITE Now!

What's in The Box?

1. A white, thick plastic, double sided tail-comb
2. 3 packets of essence hair after treatment
3. 2 bottles of relaxer solution
4. 1 packet of relaxer solution
5. 1 pair of thin one-size first all plastic gloves
6. Instructions

My Honest Opinion

The product is amazing and I will definitely purchase it again! I highly recommend it and I am a very satisfied customer. straight hair without the frizz for less than ¥2000 is a steal! No salon is necessary. It's stainless and it really worked. I sweat a lot and easily and my hair always becomes frizzy and poofy in the morning but not today! It looks like I just styled my hair for hours. I have NEVER seen my hair this straight despite how many hours I spend styling it and how much money I have spent on products for it. I am sure American brands are better as they are made fro girls with my hair but for this to be Japan and aimed at women with such fine silky straight to slightly wavy hair it worked perfect on my strands and I think you should give it a try too!

Simplified English Instructions 

Step #1 Be Prepared

1. Start with dirty (at least 3 days-2 weeks since last washed), dry, preferably straightened hair.
2. Brush and comb out your hair and clip it into 4 sections or more to make it easier to apply the solution evenly.
3. If you have sensitive skin then consider applying vaseline or cocoa butter to your edges, the nape of your neck and behind your ears to avoid chemical burns.
4. Wear a protective T-shirt and wrap a towel around your neck to avoid getting chemicals on your skin.
5. Remove and wear the provided pair of plastic protective gloves from the box attached to the instructions,

Step #2 Lather 

Squeeze the cream solution from the teal bottle labeled #1 onto your hands and distribute the product evenly into each section of hair. Use the comb to help distribute the product and try to avoid getting it directly on your scalp for now. Wait for 5-15 minutes and then rinse the product out of your hair using warm water. Wring out your hair and lightly pat it dry

This is my hair after just using the 1st bottle of hair treatment. I have never seen my hair this straight after washing it!

Step #3 The Semi-Finale

Apply the white bottle labeled #2 to the entire length of your hair including your roots and ends using the provided comb to evenly distribute the product once more.  Wait for 5-15 minutes and then rinse the product out of your hair using warm water. Wring out your hair and lightly pat it dry.

Step #4 Finishing Touches

Using your hands apply the shiny packet labeled #3 to your hair. It's a bronze/golden-orange colored packet. It looks and feels like shampoo or soap and will appear a little sudsy or bubbly (your hands might feel a strange warmth but it doesn't burn). Be sure to focus on the ends of your hair with this solution! Wait 5 minutes and rinse out the solution with warm water and dry your hair completely!

Step #5 You're All Straight 

Blow-dry your hair and use a good flatiron to lock in your new straight, non-frizzy, humidity-resistant hairstyle. Once your hair is dry and straight apply the white pack labeled #4 throughout the length of your hair. It feels like (and possibly is) a leave in conditioner. You're done and free to sweat, run, and play in the sun! No more curls no more frizz!

Tips/Advice:

• DO NOT OVER BUY! One box is all that you will need even if your hair is very long! I have thick and long hair for a black girl and to the rest of the world I have very thick medium length hair. Because my hair is so curly, thick and coarse I always buy 2-3 times the recommended amount. When I dyed my hair sandy brown years ago I always purchased 3 boxes of hair dye as long as it was in stock. Trust me, you will have more than enough relaxer solution with just the one box! It is specifically made for Asian women with long hair (hence the name PROQUALITE Long). If you are white or Asian your hair may be long, but it probably isn't as thick or coarse as mines! My hair is short in comparison but mines isn't thin (like yours)! Even Asian hair that is classified as curly and thick doesn't require as much product as mines does Trust me, I have more and thicker strands than you. My strands just aren't as long in length haha. Thick and coarse hair generally requires more product than fine or long hair both of which aren't as thick or curly in comparison to my 3B/3C Hair. Buy more boxes at your own risk. The choice is ultimately yours! I personally had more product than needed and I pretty much forced myself to use the entirety of one box's contents in my hair (I purchased 2 boxes). 1 box is all you need regardless of how long your hair is unless it's past your waist, very thick, or coarse. It's better to be safe than sorry so go ahead and buy two if you're unsure.

• DO NOT PURCHASE PROQUALITE FOR SHORT HAIR ! This is intended for girls with  BOTH (keyword both) thin and short hair that is at the neck and for men. I personally tried this one and it wasn't enough. There's significantly less product in the tubes even although the price is the same. I ended up having to run out to the store with the product in my hair and bought two additional boxes just to be safe. Since the price is the same, I see no reason for anyone to purchase the version for short hair (cut down on plastic waste maybe?) but of course you're free to make that decision for yourself.

• IT DOES NOT COME WITH ENGLISH INSTRUCTIONS! There are no manufacturer official English instructions for this perm kit. It only comes with Japanese instructions. There's a lot of Chinese resellers that are lying and claiming that it does. I assume they must mean that they themselves will provide their own instructions (just as I did) for you. I live in Japan and purchased mines here so I can't recommend a seller for you (sorry).

• I recommend leaving the products on for longer that the 2-15 minutes that it suggests if you have very wavy or curly hair but especially if you have curly hair!  However I'm not responsible for your hair if it becomes damaged! I'm just giving advice and telling you what worked for me.

         Step 1 40 minutes
         Step 2 40 minutes
         Step 3 10 minutes
         Step 4  leave in moisturizer (no time DO NOT RINSE AFTER)
        After each step rinse hair with warm water

• Be sure to focus on your roots and the back of your hair of you're a curly girls as this is probably your biggest problem area! 

• My hair wasn't "bone straight" after washing and drying my hair with a towel or even after using the blowdryer. I noticed how straight my hair was after rinsing my hair after Step 1 and after Step 2 I knew it had worked! While my hair was damp it only had a slight wavy-curly pattern which I had never seen before on my own wet hair. I simply straightened my hair with my Chi flatiron after blowdrying it with my Revlon blowdryer. I instantly noticed how fast and smooth it because straight with minimum effort. I usually run heat over my hair several times and I hold the flatiron there. Again my hair is much stronger than most people's. I know it's really bad and dangerous so yeah, yeah, yeah, tomato, tomato!

• I personally didn't wash my hair before applying the solution. I applied step 1 to hair that had been straightened and curled with a flatiron from 2 days ago, slept on, and brushed out to avoid tangles.

• The product didn't burn my hands, neck, or face and more importantly it didn't burn off any of my hair. I felt no tingling sensation and I didn't lose wads of hair 

• I recommend wearing an old protective t-shirt and a towel around your neck and back to avoid unnecessary contact with the solutions that you are placing on your hair. This can also be used for drying your hair between the steps.

• I didn't use all of step 4. A little goes a long ways! Now that my hair is thinner thanks to the relaxer (not in a bad way it just looks more flat because of how bone straight it's become) I didn't need a lot of product to cover my strands. The box tell you to use the "Essence cream" over the course of about 3 days and you are given 3 packets.This 1 pack will probably last me a week at the rate that I am using it.

Update:
I am now on day 3 of my newly relaxed hair and it's still going strong! I actually used up the first #4 pack so maybe I can't get a week out of it but there is definitely enough product for 2 days if you have thick medium length hair.
I've been getting lots of compliments stares and head turns from both Japanese and foreigners alike. Just yesterday a man ran up to me at the train station telling me that I was so beautiful that he had to try to speak to me haha.
I personally think I look so much better with straight hair and most people seem to agree as well. The product is doing as it should. It is helping my hair avoid frizz and remain straight even when I sweat which I do A LOT.




Thank you so much for reading! I hope you found this review helpful. Please feel free to share any advice that you may have whether it be good or bad in the comments below. Let other readers know how PROQUALITE worked or didn't work for you and your hair :)

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10 Tips For Foreign English Teachers in Japan

Whether you're an ALT or a homeroom teacher being a teacher can feel like a very tough and thankless job especially if you're new to this whole thing. I've spent countless hours and nights staying up late grading papers, looking for projects and organization ideas on YouTube, Pinterest and pretty much anywhere else that you can imagine. I used to arrive to work 3-5 hours (yes you read that right) early to organize folders print worksheets and make arguably illegal copies from my students textbooks in preparation of the day and month ahead. I am a self-proclaimed workaholic and I am passionate about teaching, but teaching students in a new language that you'd hope to become their second language is a challenge and your day (or year) will not always be picture perfect and your cookie-cutter methods and plans that may have worked in the past in America or even Japan won't necessarily go as smoothly as you expected from school to school or class to class.

Here's a list of ten things (in no particular order) that I think every (English) teacher in Japan should try their best to keep in mind.

1.) Remember You're Being Paid (You're The (Teacher) Adult Here!)
Whenever I feel really stressed out I remind myself that I am being paid generously with "hush money" to put up with it. I get a free 3 month train pass to go anywhere I want between Kyoto and Osaka. I have 1 month of paid vacation, 7 sick days, I'm also making a name for myself and my community,  I am doing what I love which is teaching but with a purpose, AND I get a visa to stay in this beautiful country. More importantly I am helping my students prepare for their adult lives by teaching them the language of the world... English. Your hard days will be worth it in the long run. It's always sad and hard to say goodbye to your students as you watch them grow-up and graduate or simply move to another city/prefecture. Even if you don't enjoy working with the kids personally, it's definitely a great learning experience both for you and your resume!
It's a chance for you to learn and grow. I have learned a lot about teaching, caring for children, and preparation. I have improved my public speaking skills and I have great (and embarrassingly bad) pictures and videos from work to add to my portfolio/resume.
Don't let your students or your coworkers get the best of you! You have to try your best to remain professional at all times. Regardless of whether they walk out of your class with new found knowledge and understanding or not, you will still be paid your hourly or monthly wage as compensation for all that you're doing (see number ten for more). Remember at the end of the day the jokes on them! You're still getting paid regardless of how much they learn or how much you actually teach.
They're kids and they're overworked as it is. They will make mistakes, zone out, have bad days, or months, but you're getting paid to do this. I don't know about you but I'd much rather teach bad kids than have angry Christmas customers through their merchandise and Driver's Licenses at me upon being told you need to show ID to use a check. Who even pays with checks anymore (this was back in 2013)?!
You have to be mature! Don't stoop down to anyone's level. Remain calm and quiet. Save your time and don't add any unnecessary extra stress to your life. I know it's hard but you will feel so much better if you stop allowing little things at work to make you so angry.

2.) Have Some Patience 
Everyone learns differently in many ways. Not all of your students will be excited about learning English especially if they're young and they're taking classes with you at a cram school. These kids have had a very long day full of rules, dress codes, non-stop lectures, difficult kanji, math (BOOOO!) and every other boring and hard thing imaginable. Then to top it all off their parents have forced them to listen to some random foreigner for 30-minutes-3 hours (I have many students who take 3 hour English classes at my job!). I struggled to make to 2:30PM and in High school 3:15 was a nightmare for me. Imagine being in school until 3:30PM and then taking English lessons until 7:30PM and then having piano/violin lessons until 8:30PM and then you have to practice, study finish your homework etc. upon actually getting home that is after you've walked miles all day long to and from the train station to your front door carrying your heavy backpack.
Anyway my point is some kids will be excited about your class because its fun to learn new words in a new language or simply because they know how important English will be for them in the future (it's used for both acceptance into good schools and for employment at major/good companies with high salaries and good vacation and retirement plans).
Japanese students aren't robots although it may seem that way at times! They're still kids and teenagers (or even adults). They will make mistakes. They will have bad days. Some students learn better through hands on or physical (conversational) activities others through reading and writing. Not everyone is the same! Don't get frustrated with your students because they can't understand you! Sometimes you might feel tempted to use a little Japanese when students seem lost, sleepy or frustrated but this should be avoided at all costs unless it's an emergency situation as most jobs (and parents) ask that you refrain from using any Japanese. The idea is to provide students with an immersion lesson.
Understand that practice makes perfect! Figure out what works best for your students both collectively and on an individual level. Your job is to get everyone involved and to make sure that everyone can understand the material that you are teaching. Don't embarrass students for not understanding. Have some patience. Learning English can feel like potty training a toddler sometimes.
Speak softly and slowly. find fun games and activities or even videos and songs based on the topic that your students are learning. Encourage your class to try their best and to not give up.
Offering a variety of learning methods will also help students to focus and keep them from becoming bored.

3.) Reward and Praise Students for Good Behavior and Effort
Don't get too caught up with unruly students! Never overlook the students who are trying their best to learn, improve and putting the work and effort. Be sure to praise and compliment students who are listening to you and following your directions by name. I highly recommend saying something along the lines of "Great job Maho! Thank you so much for listening! Can you give me a high-five?!" This is great because it will make the students who aren't listening to you feel jealous and it will also encourage your "good noodle" to continue doing the right thing, that is paying attention in class and following your directions.
This almost always works especially with kindergarten students who tend to be very competitive.
Remember effort is just as good as perfection! Just because a student's work isn't perfect doesn't mean that you shouldn't reward them for their handwork and effort. As a teacher your job is to encourage your students too! Try saying something like this "That's a good guess Keishi! It's very close to "b" base rhymes with vase but "vase" is spelled v-a-s-e . Vase starts with "V" as in violin not "b" as in boy." Try not to be too critical or harsh on students as you'll discourage them from ever participating in class by raising their hands, trying, or working all together.
It's easy to judge students and critique poor performances but don't forget to to give praise too! Take note of little improvements too such as a student who never talks in class that voluntarily raises her hand in an attempt to answer a question. A simple "High-five Aoi-chan!" can go a long way.

4.) Just Keep Teaching (Don't Feed The Bears)
No matter how crazy things get NEVER yell at your class. You have to stay calm and keep your cool as a teacher. The joke's on them when they try to get into a prestigious high school or college or when they're ready to become salarymen or salary women and their English speaking/understanding skills and test scores are too low to meet the minimal requirements for acceptance. Not to mention when they decide that they want to befriend or date a "foreigner".
If you always stop your lesson and feed into the negativity you'll only encourage the students to act a mess overtime they see you. This is also unfair to the students who are listening and ready to learn. The worse thing that you can do as a teacher is punish/reward everyone for the good/wrong doings of a few. Instead just make notes and talk to your manager and the child's parents about their unpleasant and disruptive behaviors.
I personally did this for 2 of my classes and my boss was very hesitant about doing this as I'm sure she feared that the parents would be offended. Well after I had a sit down with the parents my worse student came to class next week as an angel and a few of the other students mothers observed the class to ensure that their child wouldn't be a burden. A few of the parents personally apologized as they had no idea that their child was bad in class as nobody had ever told them after 2 years of learning at the same school! I was overwhelmed with the parental support 2 parents made their child bow and apologize to both me alone and then before the class for being a disturbance and 1 of the dad's yelled at his son in front of everyone after class.
 You might be the first person to ever be brave/bold enough to complain about their child. Of course keep things realistic and professional. Kids are... well, kids. They will laugh at you and make jokes. They will mimic you. They will not always listen to your every word and sometimes it will drive you crazy, but don't let this consume you and cause you to become so angry that you forget to teach the class.  Have realistic expectations. Take baby steps. It is possible to to have harmony in the classroom but you must be willing to compromise.
Remember your job is to teach! Sure this involves a little bit of discipline and parenting for/to your students too but the main focus should be on presenting learning materials. Once you've finished your job explaining the rules/ lesson etc. then you can begin to focus on individual behaviors. Ignore the bad students and reward the good. Just keep teaching and talking no matter what! Nicely ask for your student to be quiet and listen. Tell them that you will talk to their parents about their behavior and follow through! Again don't forget to get support from your boss/management. Explain to them that when the kids act out it hinders the other well behaved students from learning and this makes it nearly impossible for you to teach. Ensure them that you understand that they're kids and that the class won't be perfect but imply that there is an easy and sure way for improvement with both the student's and parent's cooperation. I would also mention that most of these parents probably have no idea how bad their kids are behaving in the cram school thats costing their parents $100-$600 a month! It's easy to become angry and to just give up. Sometimes I too want to yell at my class or worse as it is very clear that most of these kids aren't being disciplined at all when they're at home, but it's not my job or place to do so. Remember you're being paid for this! Both the good and the bad it's all your job! You have to stay focused and remember that your job is to teach. Don't feed into the negativity.
There's nothing wrong with addressing bad behavior but don't let that be the only thing that you notice.

5.) Keep Track and Organize Everything You Need For The Month
I like to spend the last weekend (sometimes week) of the month in preparation for the month that's to come. In my classes I focus on one chapter/theme for each month (5 weeks actually).  Decide what pages your student will learn from and make a generic outline of the days focus and homework.
For example if the chapter is on Days of the Week find a few videos to show the class, a few worksheets and make additional copies of the workbook so that students can try to answer the questions correctly again. Don't be afraid to reassign the same classwork. It makes great practice! Most of your students will only see you once a week and therefore only "study" while they're in class with you. I am amazed at the number of students that I have whose parents clearly don't pack their bags or check their homework.
Here's a sample of how I conduct my class taken straight from my Pages documents.....

Monthly Lesson Guide

9 Units Per A Year

1 Lesson per a Month

42 Classes per a Year

Week 1 Lesson 

• Unit Introduction
• Picture Dictionary Page observation (what do you see) Vocab introduction
• Complete 1 page from the Activity Book in class

Homework

2 pages of homework from the Activity Book

Week 2 Lesson 

• Unit Review
• Practice Writing and Reading Vocab Class assignment
• Have students write each vocabulary word 5 times each in class
• Have students copy sentence samples for each vocab word in their notes
• Talk about vocabulary in detail (give examples)

Homework

Use each vocabulary word in 1 complete sentence.

Week 3 Lesson 

• Unit Review
• Picture Dictionary I SPY & Vocab Review 
• Complete 1 Page from the Picture Dictionary activity book in class
• 1-2 Coloring Activities/Projects (based off of the Picture Dictionary Unit)

Homework

Journal Writing Assignment (based off of the unit)

Week 4 Lesson  

• Briefly review vocabulary from both unit lesson and picture dictionary
• Have students read Journal Aloud for the class
• Practice self-introduction and Greetings
• Open Conversation/AGO Cards

Homework

Write each vocabulary word 5 times each 

Week 5 Lesson 

• Watch 1-3 (semi-lengthy)Videos based off the the current unit
• Open Conversation/AGO Cards
• Coloring Activity/Art Project based off of the current unit
• Give Students Certificates of Completion for learning new vocabulary and completing the months lessons.
• Optional: Give a special treat at the end of class as a reward for good behavior and completion of the months homework assignments

Homework

None

Of course life happens, things change, and sometimes we are short on time so I have to maker adjustments to this but again this is just a rough outline based off of the usage of "Super Kids & Super Tots". With my younger students (preschoolers) I don't assign any homework but I maintain a monthly theme such as colors. Each day of class is about colors through various means such as stories, crafts/projects, videos etc..
I have 1 folder for each class and I keep track of all of the assignments that we have done. At the end of the unit I give my students all of their completed assignments to take home and show to their parents.

I take and keep notes of my students behaviors and skills/abilities that I have noticed during class. This is very helpful for days when you can't make its to work and you need someone to substitute for you. They can simply look over your student notes and view your monthly folder to get an idea of what to expect and some ideas in regards of what and how to teach.
This will also help you to memorize your students! If you take and keep notes of what happens during each class you will quickly become familiar with your students names, faces, and behaviors.
You can also leave book marks and take notes to help you keep track of where you left off at.

6.) Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help (Students Parents, Co-workers, Management)
Sometimes you'll feel lost and that's okay too! Teaching isn't always an easy job and it most certainly does't come naturally for everyone but it is a skill that can be learned and even perfected! Sometimes it's best to just ask for advice. Maybe your coworkers can tell you what the previous teachers have done. You can learn about what has or hasn't worked in the past.
If you are having a hard time controlling your class just speak calmly take a deep breath and explain (in a professional manner) your frustration/dilemma to management. They will work with you to resolve your problems but you have to speak up! Once again many parents have no clue that their beloved little babies are being bad in class. You shouldn't have to fear or dread going to work.
Remember it's all about how you make the suggestion. I had a really bad kindergarten class 2 of the boys in particular would fight non-stop until I suggested that a phone call to mom and dad be made. I asked that she simply say that I am concerned that they might have a learning disability such as ADHD as I noticed that it is very difficult for them to pay attention, sit still, or focus for any length of time. I also emphasized that this unruly behavior is unfair to the difficult students peers/classmates and that it's disrespectful words me as the teacher.
 My boss hesitated to do so but the parents had no idea that this was even going on and seemed to have been rather embarrassed by their child's behavior and were very apologetic. Discipline starts and ends at the home! Don't try to take matters into your own hands. It's not only illegal these days but it's simply not your job. Again you never want to make accusations but simply suggest what you think is the problem and hint at a few ideas of ways that this problem can be resolved (if appropriate).
These parents are paying hundreds of dollars a month and MOST of them don't want they money to go to waste because their kids was busy being a class clown.
You might feel incompetent and unprofessional because you're the teacher yet you're asking for help but as a teacher you have to know your limits and set boundaries to keep your own sanity.

7.) Make Plans for "Me Time"
All work and no play is a major no no here in Japan. You'll become overwhelmed and you'll find yourself eyeballing TripAdvisor and Priceline for the cheapest and fastest flight back home. It's very important that you find time for leisure. If you think you don't have time you'd better make some! Work in Japan is very stressful and time-consuming. Between the endless showers, nearly 2 hour train rides and hour long walks to and from everywhere you'll feel exhausted. Working with kids is very hard. Of course the sweet little cupcakes that listen and that are studious, and eager to learn are the greatest but this isn't how everyone is going to be. No matter how much you think you love/like kids and no matter how many children of your own that you have being a teacher to someone else's kids is very challenging. All of this plus the added language barrier and you're in for a ride!
Find groups to join or download some old reliable social media apps (I'll make a post about my recommendations for meeting people in Japan). Don't be afraid to ask your coworkers to go out for lunch or dinner during the weekend. You can play a day the aquarium, a theme park, a trip to the mall or for some fun at the arcade. This is a great way to relax and get to know one another. You can even have a language exchange or possibly find that special someone.
It's okay to love your job and your students, but be sure to love yourself even more!
If you never make time to meet new people, hand out with your friends or to simply enjoy the things you've purchased like your new clothes, CD's, video games etc., you'll be miserable and will always be in a bad mood because you will of course naturally feel underpaid, taken advantage of and drained of your energy. You're more than an English teacher. You are a human being with emotions and you deserve to have weekly treat for yourself.
If you think that you don't have enough time consider cutting back on the time you spend planning lessons. You can consider moving closer to your job if you live more than 30 minutes away (it will be worth it in the long run). Don't arrive to work so early and don't stay too late! Schedule your private lessons/students on weekdays only (avoid having private lessons during the weekend).
If you're not having fun and enjoying yourself you will not last long as a teacher in Japan.
You don't have to have crazy drunken parties every weekend or waste money going out every night. All it takes is a simple bubble bath, playing some video games, streaming music, catching up on some TV shows, drawing, painting, taking some photos, or even exploring your neighborhood to make you feel relaxed.
You have to give yourself something to look forward to after work (always).

8.) Set a Budget (for Yourself and Your Students)
As a teacher sure you're not making billions of yen a year but you definitely should be with the amount of work and love you're pouring into your job and your students. I often times find myself getting a bit carried away and I tend to splurge a little bit too much on both myself and my students. It's okay to think about other people and want to buy school supplies and materials for that awesome Pinterest or YouTube craft that your mother emailed, or to decide that you'd like to make Pokemon Cake-pops for the monthly birthday babies but don't go overboard! Decide how much you'd like to spend each month and stick to it! Personally I'd never spend more than $100 USD per month on my students and for myself I try to spend $100 or less for my breakfasts and lunches for the month during the work week. Avoiding fast-food and nights of heavy drinking with your coworkers is a must if you want to have money to travel to other countries, make a trip back home  or to explore Japan during your vacations and time off from work.
You should really spend much less than this for your students and some months I don't buy anything for my classes. $100 may seem like too much to some people but I often times find good ideas for classroom learning and projects from the internet so I have to be construction papers, stickers, glue, crayons, and other miscellaneous supplies. I like to buy or sometimes make a small card with a gift card and treat for my students birthdays.
Buying a bento everyday can add up quickly! Instead by some discount meat bread and vegetables and simply freeze them until needed. I like to make green smoothies/juice for days when Im in a rush so that I can just grab it and go. When I'm feeling lazy or if I have a busy week ahead I will make a pot of spaghetti, Brat-burgers, sausages, tacos (or anything else that's cheap and can stretch). The left overs can serve as both a quick lunch to take to work or as an easy microwaveable dinner for those ate nights the you don't even want to think about cooking.
I usually leave croissants, cookies, crackers, chips, tea, water, energy drinks, and jerky at my office so that even if I am in a rush I will always have some food on hand. Nothing is more embarrassing than a noisy stomach during a lecture.
It's okay to go out every once in a while with your friends or coworkers but you have to be reasonable sometimes you will have to say "no" in order to save money and stick to your budget.
Try to avoid crafts/projects that are costly or consider asking your boss to cover the expenses or to chip in and help cover the costs (maybe even the parents would be willing to put a few yen towards your ideas).
We're human we all make mistakes you might go over budget some months and that's okay, but try to avoid making fancy/expensive crafts, and konbini bentos into a habit.

9.) Don't Rush Lessons/ Classes (Set a Schedule and Make Time for Review) 
I sometimes find myself moving to fast because my students are too smart and are completing their worksheets faster than I had expected OR sometimes the opposite happens. My students are having a hard time understanding the instructions that I gave them so we spend the entire class on 1 out of the 10 worksheets in the packet for the day. remember you have to have patience and remain calm. Use a friendly, calm and soothing voice and break it down in the simplest way possible (avoid using stand or big words). If students finish early have them copy sentences, write vocabulary words 3-10 times each etc.. Don't be afraid to get creative! I often times will have students listen and reread/repeat the stories, vocabulary or phonics from the unit. Theres nothing wrong with a few minute son peace and quiet. Consider working on some of the homework slowly together as a class or read a book or watch a video to kill any remaining time.
If you're always finishing too early maybe you're moving to fast for your students to really learn and memorize the vocabulary that you have taught them. Speak slowly. Offer help. Come up with a game to play together as a class.
You don't always have to punish your class with more work just because they finished early. Indoor recess anyone?!

10.) Don't Forget Why You Started!
No job is perfect! Yes you will have to work with difficult students, coworkers/teachers,and even parents at times! I always try to remind myself of how miserable I was making $8.50 and hour at Walmart and $8.35 an hour at Starbucks. I've worked at almost every retailer that you can think of and I pretty much hated all of my jobs back in America! I was overworked, under appreciated, and underpaid. I had to deal with racists and put up with disrespect. I've been cursed out and had things thrown at me and even had a run in with the law!
Whenever I think that I "hate" doing this I simply take a look back and see what I've done and been through to get here. Even in Japan I had garbage jobs! I've quit and I've been "let go of" A.K.A fired. This happened right before my birthday and Christmas and New Year by "so called" black Christians for no reason other than they didn't feel I was worth paying for (I'll explain this late but I moved and my transportation costs doubled so they came up with crap reasons to fire me). I felt unsafe working as a maid and quit due to privacy concerns (I'll explain this in a later post too).
My point is think about how much you you've done to get where you are. The countless hours in college. The nervous nights and early morning practicing for your trials lessons and interviews. All of the rejection you've experience. You have to want this just like you did before you were hired or maybe back before you had enough money to actually get to Japan.
You can do it! Don't give up! Don't let go of a good and stable job over something ridiculous and meaningless. Many people would give up and do just about anything to be in your position. I spent over 2 years binge watching YouTube videos, NHK Japan and random anime as well as scouring the web for anything related to Japan to read. I felt hopeless and wanted to give up. No matter how angry you become. No matter how much you swear you deserve more pay and appreciation (which you probably do)  both you and I know that you'd seriously regret leaving.
It's okay to switch jobs or even to return to your home country, but make sure that you have a clear mind and that you aren't making decisions out of anger or sadness.
All of the hard days that you have at work or working from home will be worth it in the future. The best thing about life is that pain, sadness, and stress don't and won't last forever.
I promise that your happiness will return no matter how seemingly lost it (and you) appear to be! Coming to Japan was and still is your dream. are you really going to let someone or something else take that away from you?...

Above all else remember that you are the teacher! You are the language expert! You have the power and the control. Only you can make it or break it. At the end of the day you are responsible for your own happiness and success. There will be bad days and you will make mistakes. Sometimes your feelings and stress will get the best of you, but there are better days to come and possibly a better job or position as well.

Be optimistic and remain positive. You're a great teacher!




If you have any advice comments, questions or tips please leave a comment below. Thank you so much for reading and I wish you the best of luck in your career and life in Japan!

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