Exercise 2Article
Read the article aloud on your own or repeat each paragraph after your tutor.The Hidden Stress of After-Work SocializingGoing out for drinks with coworkers might seem like a fun way to unwind. It can help people talk more and become closer, or it can just be a great way to relax after a long day's work.
But a new study shows that not everyone enjoys being invited to these kinds of social events — and for some, it can be stressful.
Researchers from the University of Georgia asked workers in the US and Taiwan how they felt when a coworker invited them to do something social, like get drinks or go to dinner after work.
Some people said they felt happy and thankful. These people usually had a more outgoing and confident personality.
But people who said they weren't as socially confident felt stressed or worried — even if they said no to the invite.
Just getting the invitation made some people feel pressured, because they didn't want to upset their coworkers by saying no. They also worried about how long the event would last or what it would be like, which caused them stress. Some were even less focused during their workday because of this stress.
This is especially important in countries like Japan, where drinking with coworkers after work has been a tradition for many years.
These events come with their own kind of etiquette, which can be stressful for Japanese workers who are less socially confident. For example, workers are expected to pour drinks for others but not for themselves. It's also common to stay until the end of the event, even if you feel tired.
While some enjoy these customs, a recent report from the Nippon Foundation showed that fewer Japanese companies are holding these events now, and more workers are starting to ask if they are really necessary.
Going out with coworkers might help some people feel more connected, but it's not a perfect fit for everyone — and that's OK.