5 Russian character traits that surprised a Frenchman
Having lived in Russia for about seven years, I’ve managed to immerse myself in local society and find my place in it. However, I experienced a real culture shock on several occasions!
1. The absence of the concept of personal space
Being more of an introvert, I found this Russian trait the most difficult to adapt to. It's more common among the older generation and is likely a legacy of the Soviet past, where everything was communal. Two incidents stand out the most for me.
During my first year in Russia, I was studying in Nizhny Novgorod and renting an apartment from a couple, who were around 50 years old. Every Sunday, the landlord would knock on my door early in the morning to chat. However, this "conversation" essentially consisted of him talking, as I didn't have sufficient language skills at the time to reply. I’d inevitably end up completely drained, forced to politely listen to his endless stream of words.
Another incident happened during a train trip to the Southern Urals: Imagine, 36 hours in a ‘platzkart’ wagon with bunk beds and virtually no walls or doors. No sooner had I sat down than I was forced to become the "conversation partner" of a babushka, who was determined to tell me all about her life. I didn't even need to reply. With no means of escape, I had to listen to the monologue for what felt like one of the longest days of my life. I think, by the way, that she didn't even realize I was a foreigner or understood little to nothing!
2. The importance of career & personal growth
Another, more positive, distinctive trait of Russians that concerns mainly the younger generation is that they have a big drive to achieve goals, self-improvement and develop their own skills.
Most of my acquaintances in Russia play sports, dedicate themselves to the arts, develop additional professional activities or, alongside their careers, strive to get another education. This is combined with a love for culture: theaters and museums are always full. When I asked about the reason for this, many referred to their childhoods in the difficult 1990s. A turbulent time with little to no prospects that instilled in them a burning desire to succeed in life and realize their potential.
I particularly value this trait; it greatly influenced me. Today, sports and entrepreneurship have become an integral part of my life, something which, I'm sure, wouldn't have happened to me had I stayed in France.
However, it must be acknowledged that there is a flip side: the pressure to succeed. In Russia, one feels a certain obligation to surpass oneself and to make efforts in that direction, which can sometimes become a source of discomfort.
I remember a mother with a seven-year-old girl I once met on a train. The child was enrolled in two foreign language courses, was participating in chess tournaments and did regular gymnastics and dancing. I think this more reflected the mother's desire for her daughter to achieve what she herself could not. But, is there any room left for a simple, carefree childhood?
3. Frankness
The extreme sincerity of Russians also shocks us, the French, for whom politeness, tact and caution in behavior are essential at all times. In Russia, there are no ceremonies; no one burdens themselves with particular social niceties.
This, by the way, fosters deeper and more sincere relationships; whereas, in France, reservation and distrust become obstacles. In Russia, if someone has a problem with you, they won't hesitate to tell you. Similarly, if someone has warm feelings for you, you will definitely find out about it.
4. Resilience, solidarity & ingenuity
These Russian traits also likely have roots in the Soviet era, a time of total shortages, when it was necessary to make do with what was at hand and to help each other out. It's also a result of the harsh climate and turbulent history, which often led to situations where mutual aid was a matter of survival.
Regardless of the circumstances, Russians will always find a way out of a difficult situation. They are the kings of improvisation. This is particularly true of the older generation.
I knew babushkas who stored amazing things in jars in their apartments: eggshells, candy wrappers, etc…. You know, “just in case”. Without a doubt, it’s to them one should turn to for salvation, in case of a deadly famine or the apocalypse!
5. Self-irony
Russians are also very capable of laughing at themselves. Self-irony permeates the national culture. Beyond the countless legendary Soviet comedy movies, the country also has numerous humorous TV shows, featuring even the biggest Russian celebrities. Many aren't embarrassed to be shown in a ridiculous light and take jokes at their own expense without complaint. On social media, one can also find many humorous channels where this distinctive trait is clearly evident.
Contrary to the cold and stern image often projected about Russians in the West, they possess a sharp sense of humor and know how not to take themselves too seriously. Something which, in my opinion, is now practically lost in France! Oh, l’ironie!
