Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Exploring 5 Global Cultures for National Hot Tea Month
Do you know what the most consumed liquid in the world is after water? And hint: It’s not beer! Tea is made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis and is the second most consumed drink on the planet. So, in honor of National Hot Tea Month, we are exploring five global regions where tea is a fundamental part…
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National Clean Off Your Desk Day 2022
Marie Kondo would be unhappy with us from time to time – from our technology to our beverage cups, our workspace can easily become untidy. Monday, January 10th is an excellent day to declutter and organize your home or office work space. Annually, on the second Monday of January, workers nationwide participate in National Clean Off Your…
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Interesting Things to Know About Boxing Day 2021
In Australia, Britain, Canada, Kenya, and a number of the 54 nations within the British Commonwealth, the day after Christmas, December 26th is known as Boxing Day. So, what is Boxing Day? Does it correlate to the sport of boxing? Consider these six (6) interesting facts about this December holiday. As a Catholic tradition, the Boxing Day holiday has its…
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Regifting Customs & Etiquette in the US
Regifting occurs when someone gives a gift that was previously given to them by someone else. At its heart, regifting lacks integrity because the original gift recipient is repurposing a gift that was especially chosen just for them – to a different person. In U.S. culture, regifting has evolved as more acceptable in certain social…
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Central & Eastern European Global Gift Giving Customs
As a frequent business traveler, I seek opportunities to bring thoughtful gifts from Austin when I travel to Central and Eastern Europe. My business counterparts enjoy original Texas products including AustinNuts, Lammes Candies Longhorns, and Texas Map linens. So, how do I decide what gifts to bring to my European colleagues? Is there a difference between gift giving in…
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Global Gift Giving in Asia and the U.S.A. 2021
A blue and white Texas porcelain tray is nestled beautifully among other cherished gifts on the office coffee table of Madam Nie Meisheng. She is the former Chairwoman of the Chinese Real Estate Chamber of Commerce in Beijing, China. When I gifted this eye-catching, artfully scalloped ‘made-in-Texas, USA’ tray, I intended it to be a special item…
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Sharon Schweitzer’s Holiday Card Etiquette 2021
A new Shutterfly poll, conducted by Ipsos, has revealed that two in five U.S. Americans plan to send out holiday cards or give personalized gifts to connect this 2021 holiday season, a significant increase of nearly 24% from 2020. So, during this pandemic holiday season, individuals, families, and organizations will send more holiday cards. There is something about…
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The Culture Question Part II: International Negotiations
When looking to expand abroad or partner with a multinational firm, even the most successful business professionals get blindsided by unexpected cross-cultural differences. The reality is that certain business practices- including regulation, contract mediation, and decision making- vary widely according to the cultures in negotiation. Before you dive into trying to make a deal, familiarize…
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11 Ways to Honor our Veterans in 2021
In the United States, on November 11th, our country honors the people who are actively serving or who have served our nation in the military. For 21 years my father, Ted Schweitzer served in the U.S. Navy. He retired in Virginia Beach, Virginia at Oceana Naval Air Station. I am proud that my brothers, sister-in-law,…
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7 Tips for Graciously Navigating Politics at Thanksgiving
Your brined turkey is perfectly prepared, and your sauces are expertly simmered. Your home is thoroughly sanitized. ‘Tis the night before Thanksgiving; you and your sous chef have planned an excellent celebration. The only concern is guest behavior. You break out in a cold sweat with memories of Uncle Ben and Cousin Ralph’s political brawl…
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