Whenever I try to explain “nomikai” in English, I get a bit confused because a direct translation doesn’t seem appropriate due to cultural differences. Highlighting the drinking aspect of the gathering feels a little awkward.
Anyway, I had dinner with my former colleagues last week and the week before last. I enjoyed it, and I hope everyone I talked with felt the same.
On the other hand, I also have some regrets, as I feel I must have done something embarrassing due to my drunkenness.
Embarrassment seems inevitable in life, and I feel that this anxiety intensifies after social gatherings involving alcohol.
I wonder if I will eventually start declining invitations to these dinners one day.
Usually, I forget these feelings as time passes and accept future invitations anyway.
I also believe that socializing itself is helpful for my work.
I report to a global organization and need to develop relationships with colleagues in other departments in any way I can.
So, it’s a bit complex.