In most countries around the world
When conversations go down
And it becomes a little awkward
you find something to comment about
And the conversation starts again
It flows easily
Awkwardness goes away quickly
In Sweden, it is a little bit different
Unframed discussions are more challenging
With an acquaintance
You will go to a quiz rather than for a coffee
You will play a game rather than discussing the news
You will go walking in the mountain rather than reflecting together on the world
In Sweden
If you want to discuss politics, sign up in a political organisation
If you want to discuss art, sing up in an art club
If you want to discuss feelings, get an appointment with a psychologist
Welcome to Sweden
Where communication may require a frame and a reason in order to work well
Many Swedes do not realise how different their social culture is
You may need a social guide
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"The Swedes" and "Working with Swedes" present many of the unknown social rules in Sweden
By Julien S. Bourrelle
Watch him on TED
