Adjust to French Customs

To compare the contrasts in customs from Canadian to French is a task that could go on for a lifetime. Theoretically speaking, France is far more collectivistic in nature than Canadian society. That alone creates a bunch of different customs common to French society not present in Canada. One custom in that I noticed as soon as I arrived was how important image and first impressions to French people, even outside of professional environments. 

One way in particular French people make a good impression is by always looking their best! I like to dress up and look good too but it in France it appeared to be an obsessive trend for the locals. . Coming from Canada, it's hard to explain to them why we wear flip flops and pyjamas bottoms to go to the supermarket or why we throw on sweat pants and a baggy sweater to attend classes. It has been a value clash because a few, not all, do find it almost insulting to go anywhere with them dressed so casually. To the French people here, it all comes down to their values concerning appearances and first impressions. Making good first impressions are very important to them and they live by that famous saying “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” whereas Canadians are more likely to live by the saying “Never judge a book by its cover”. Learning to adjust to that custom, and many others, wasn't overly difficult it was only a matter of knowing what was appropriate at what time. Adjusting to these new customs taught me how to be observant to the point where by the end of my trip, I also adapted some French customs