I have been working for a Tokyo based NPO since the beginning of April. I think I have been doing fairly well; it is a small office with a staff of three including myself.

I'm familiar with tatemae and honne, I know about group harmony taking priority, and I'm aware Japanese people have a phenomenal work ethic (or so it appears). But I don't see how you can disguise a rough day all the time. I do the best I can, but sometimes I feel frustrated. Is this something expected of foreign workers, in the way people are unsurprised by foreigners who eat on the street because we don't know any better? What about explaining mistakes rather than simply apologizing for them? I have a habit of giving reasons for mistakes, but are they even looking for them?

Does anyone have tips on surviving in a Japanese workplace? Again, my office is extremely small, but please share anything in case others are reading too. Both of my coworkers are Japanese so I really appreciate any and all insight from expats working here.