Cultural norms are like the unspoken rules that guide how we act in different societies. Here are some examples that might surprise you:

1. Personal Space

In many Western countries, people really value their personal space. Usually, folks keep about 1.5 meters of distance when talking. But in some Arab cultures, people stand much closer—sometimes only about half a meter apart! This shows that different cultures feel comfortable with different amounts of space.

2. Greeting Customs

How people say hello can change a lot based on where you are:

• Japan: People often bow to show respect.
• Hawaii, USA: The "aloha" greeting includes a hug and maybe even a kiss on the cheek.
• France: Friends often greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks.

3. Eating Etiquette

What you do at the table can also vary:

• In many Asian countries, it's polite to finish everything on your plate. But in some European places, leaving a little food can show that you had enough to eat.
• In Ethiopia, it’s common to share food from a big plate, which shows connection and community among people.

4. Tipping Practices

People have different ideas about tipping:

• In the United States, it’s common to leave a tip of 15-20% in restaurants. But in Japan, people often don’t tip at all because it can be seen as rude.
• A 2021 survey found that 25% of people in Sweden thought tips weren’t needed, showing a different view on service.

5. Dress Codes

What people wear also changes by culture:

• In many Middle Eastern countries, it’s expected to dress modestly. On the other hand, wearing beach clothes is totally fine in many Western countries.

Conclusion

These examples show how cultural norms influence how we behave and what we expect from others. Understanding these differences helps us respect each other and interact in a friendly way.