There are two Thai virtues that everyone should practice for a better, healthier life – and that you must practice if you want to succeed in Thailand: patience and flexibility.
Patience
Thailand does not operate at the same pace that you may be accustomed to at home. Adjusting to both the different pace and the related apparent lack of effort takes patience. When you finally get it, you will understand something important about cultural difference. For the moment, let’s just say that you need to remember that however frustrated you are by the apparent lack of interest or urgency, real progress is being made in places you do not know about or understand. Thais are simply too polite to burden you with the real complexities involved in getting things done. In the meantime, it is recommended that you maintain a sunny, positive, enthusiastic outlook at no matter how frustrated or tired you may be. Seriously.
Remember at all times: The easiest way to lose the respect of Thais is to show anger or frustration. Rule One in Thailand: Thou shall not yell, shout, wave your arms, demand to see the manager, roll your eyes, make references to “these people” or otherwise give any indication that you are not blissfully contented.
Part of learning to be patient in Thailand is internalizing the concept of “Thai time.” “ Thai time” is usually 15 minutes after the appointed time. For example, when a Thai person says that a meeting will begin at 9:00 AM, it usually begins after 9:15 AM. Remember this when scheduling anything or when waiting for someone to show up for a meeting. Just go with the flow. If you really have a hard time with, just set your watch back fifteen minutes.
Flexibility
Flexibility in all aspects is important here, as things often change unexpectedly. For example, schedules often change without advance notice and it is important to be able to deal with this. Make sure that you always have plans B and C ready – and be ready to have a cup of coffee, too. Bring a book.
Remember Murphy’s Rule: Anything and everything that can go wrong will go wrong – and at the worst possible time. Murphy is not a Thai name, but he must have visited while doing his research. Offices will be closed, officials will not be available, equipment will break, it will rain, the translator will not show up.
So?
Go with the flow. Life is long – unless you shorten it by being angry about things you can’t control. And if you lose your temper – the problem will magically repeat tomorrow, too! (Just a word to the wise.)