/r/AsianAmericanIssues

Photograph via snooOG

Current issues relevant to Asian Americans.

/r/AsianAmericanIssues

3,710 Subscribers

2

Students finishing up first semester since Chancellor Keon's removal from Purdue Northwest for mocking "Asian" language

0 Comments
2024/11/30
23:44 UTC

0

How To RizzMaxx and Be Charismatic (According to Science!)

Charisma accounts for 82% of how others perceive you, according to a 2007 Princeton study.

That’s a staggering figure—and it’s good news for us because charisma isn’t about being tall, rich, or conventionally handsome. Here’s what the study says: People judge us on two key traits—warmth (friendliness, approachability) and competence (confidence, skill).

Balancing these two traits is critical. Too much warmth without competence, and people may see you as likable but not serious. Too much competence without warmth, and you might come off as intimidating or aloof. It’s about mastering a balance between warmth and competence—two things anyone can learn to embody.

For Asian men, navigating stereotypes can feel like an uphill battle. Society often boxes us in, portraying us as either passive and invisible or overly competent but cold. To break free of these perceptions, charisma can be a game-changer.

So, how do we put this into action?

1️⃣ Warmth:

  • Avoid the Asian Poker Face! Smile often, especially during introductions. A genuine smile signals trust and friendliness.
  • Start by being genuinely interested in others. Use active listening—nod your head, tilt slightly toward the person speaking, and make consistent eye contact.
  • Compliment others sincerely. When approaching women, instead of generic compliments, make them specific: “I love your red dress, you're very confident”.

2️⃣ Competence:

  • Slow down your speech and lower your tone when speaking. This conveys authority and control. Avoid rushing or ending sentences on a rising intonation, as it can sound uncertain.
  • Stand tall and practice open, expansive body language. Avoid crossing your arms or slouching, as these convey insecurity.
  • Share stories of your experiences or achievements when appropriate. Competence is more impactful when it’s evident but not boastful.
  • Your style and having a complete identity in your sexual avatar and social presentation, and paying attention to detail, can show a high level of competence.

I go into more detail about this in my latest video, breaking down how anyone can RizzMaxx their charisma.

https://preview.redd.it/csjdjd6o333e1.jpg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=15e83d36e6784f71a58585461376896608cebb01

Check it out if you’re interested: https://youtu.be/khvfdpNflXw

0 Comments
2024/11/25
17:50 UTC

1

An edit made for Warrior 2019

0 Comments
2024/11/24
01:05 UTC

3

What does American Identity mean to you?

Hello everyone,

As part of my capstone paper, I'm interested in understanding what 'American Identity' means to you. In your opinion, what are the key elements that define being an American? How do cultural, historical, and personal factors shape this identity?

Thank you in advance for sharing your insights!"

0 Comments
2024/11/20
07:30 UTC

17

Struggling with Identity: Grew Up in Thailand as a White American

Hi Reddit,

I’m looking to connect with anyone who has experienced similar cultural identity struggles. Here’s my story:

My dad was an international businessman, and my mom was a computer programmer. They worked for a company that frequently sent them overseas, especially to Thailand/Singapore/Japan. When my mom became pregnant with me, they decided to live in Asia, primarily Thailand, since they spent most of their time there. They came back to the U.S. for my birth so I’d have American citizenship, but by the time I was six months old, we moved to Thailand, where I spent the first seven years of my life.

While we lived there, we were financially comfortable. I was raised by a Thai nanny who was like family to us. Her two daughters, who were my age, grew up alongside me and were essentially like sisters. My nanny even traveled with us and had her own household and family, but she was treated with deep respect and love. My early childhood was immersed in Thai culture, language, and traditions.

When I was seven, my parents decided it was time to move back to the U.S., where I attended private schools with predominantly Asian and Southeast Asian students (Chinese, Taiwanese, Indian, etc.). While I still felt somewhat connected to Asian culture through these peers, there were no Thai people around, which created a cultural gap for me.

Now I’m 24, and I’ve been struggling with my identity. I’m white, but so much of my upbringing and values feel deeply tied to Thai and broader Asian culture. I’ve visited Thailand almost every year since we left, and I cherish those ties. But because I’m not Asian, I often feel like I’m walking on eggshells when connecting with Asian culture—I don’t want to be seen as fetishizing or appropriating it.

For example, I enjoy a lot of Thai/Japanese/Korean/Chinese media and resonate with Confucian values, but I hesitate to share these interests with others for fear of being judged. At the same time, I feel like I don’t fully belong to either culture—Thai or American. I understand that I am not Asian, but it feels like this culture I was raised in, that I love so much, I am not a part of. This disconnect has left me feeling isolated, and I’d really like to hear from others who might share similar experiences.

If you’re Asian American, a white person who grew up in an Asian country, or someone who’s navigated similar cultural identity issues, I’d love to hear your story and how you’ve managed these feelings.

TL;DR: I’m a white woman who spent the first seven years of my life in Thailand, deeply connected to Thai culture. After moving to the U.S., I’ve struggled with cultural identity—feeling like I don’t fully belong to either culture. Looking to connect with anyone who’s experienced similar struggles.

Thank you for reading.

0 Comments
2024/11/19
08:05 UTC

7

A Generation Lost: Why Positive Role Models Are Important For Young Asian Men

Growing up as an Asian guy in the West, many of us had no one to guide us through life’s challenges. We lacked role models who truly understood our struggles—people who looked like us and could inspire us to rise above the stereotypes and expectations forced on us.

https://preview.redd.it/fxbgi4gn0p1e1.jpg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab85b9be5a288e52bc73ae6335c6977e76f8b74e

Bruce Lee was the symbol of what was possible, but he’s been gone for over 50 years. Since then, we’ve been left to figure things out in a world that often refuses to see us. Sure there's been the rising tide of Kpop/Bollywood, but it's still not all that popular in the West. And yeah, we got Simu Liu in MCU's Shang Chi, both their first Asian superhero but also the very first male lead superhero that did NOT get a romantic interest in all of the MCU.

So two steps forward, one step back. This absence of representation has real consequences. It chips away at our confidence, our self-image, and our ability to connect with others, especially in relationships, self-esteem and mental wellness.

That’s why I created this video, "Generation Lost: Why Role Models Are Important for Young Asian Men." It’s not just about recognizing the problem—it’s about starting the solution. Asian men can and should step up as leaders, as role models, and as examples of strength and success.

It’s time to fill the vacuum ourselves. Watch the video and see how we’re breaking down barriers and building the foundation for a stronger future. Let’s show the world—and ourselves—what we’re capable of. 💪

0 Comments
2024/11/18
17:14 UTC

1

What If...? 2x07 - Opening Scene - Hela Almost Kisses Wenwu (Shang-Chi) - Scene (HD) | S02 E07

0 Comments
2024/11/16
19:58 UTC

5

How This Film Erased Asian-Americans From Their Own Story

1 Comment
2024/11/15
10:12 UTC

6

How to Get Us Out to Vote?

The Anti- Asian Hate movement springs up apprehensively whenever one of our elders gets shoved or assaulted. I say apprehensively because the public fears backlash from those of the race that usually targets us. The left will say proposals to curb shoplifting, drug use, and violence disproportionately targets black and brown. Notice how we are not included in their concerns though? Most times we just keep to ourselves and even shrug off verbal abuse, but anything more than that is unacceptable. We as a community do not get out to vote enough though for the anti-crime measures and candidates. San Francisco is at least a third Asian. If we all got up to vote to exercise our rights, we can actually shift California more to the right. If we are not voting, we are not gaining a voice or power in the U.S. What can we possibly do to get our community out during election season?

1 Comment
2024/11/11
18:20 UTC

1

[VIDEO] How To Overcome Approach Anxiety (7 Beginner Level Techniques)

As Asian men, a lot of us know that approach anxiety isn’t just about the fear of talking to someone new—it’s can also include the cultural and social pressures we carry, too. Maybe you’ve felt the extra layer of nerves because of stereotypes or assumptions about how “approachable” we are (or aren’t) or how receptive she is (or not) to us as men of color.

The truth is, approaching and connecting with women isn’t just for the “natural” extroverts or guys without insecurities. It’s a skill you can learn, and it’s one that can build confidence in all areas of your life.

Here are 7 beginner level tips that can help you push through approach anxiety and start feeling genuinely comfortable connecting with others:

  1. Start Small and Build Up Don’t try to go from zero to approaching the most attractive woman in the room right away. Start by talking to anyone around you—whether it’s the cashier, barista, or even someone you pass in the grocery store. This isn’t about flirting or “picking up”—it’s about getting comfortable with initiating conversations. The more you do it, the more natural it becomes.
  2. Desensitize Yourself to Your Environment Spend time in places where you’d like to meet people—cafes, parks, bookstores. Familiarity reduces anxiety because you start feeling like you belong there. If you know a spot where you can get comfortable, keep going back until it feels like home base. Feeling at ease in a place helps you feel more in control and reduces that nervous “outsider” feeling.
  3. Use Simple, Observational Openers Instead of stressing over a “perfect line,” make a comment about something around you. Say, “Hey, that book looks interesting, what’s it about?” or “You seem like a coffee expert—what did you order?” These openers are low-pressure, genuine, and allow the other person to open up naturally. For Asian men, observational openers also help sidestep any cultural stereotype that we’re shy or too formal, by keeping things light and easy.
  4. Apply the 3-Second Rule When you see someone you want to talk to, count to three and go for it. The longer you wait, the more your brain will come up with reasons to hold back. This rule helps you stop overthinking and makes you feel more decisive. It’s a powerful technique for stopping that self-doubt spiral we sometimes fall into.
  5. Get Comfortable with Rejection Rejection is part of the process, and honestly, it’s a good thing. Every time you face rejection, you’re getting more resilient. Remember, she’s not rejecting you personally—she’s just not interested right then. Taking rejection less personally can be especially helpful for Asian guys, since we often feel like there’s extra pressure to prove ourselves. Shake it off, and move on. Every interaction is practice.
  6. Visualize Success Spend a few minutes every day imagining yourself having positive, relaxed conversations with people. Visualizing successful interactions helps “rewire” your mind to expect good outcomes. This is a useful mental exercise to overcome that extra cultural baggage and self-doubt that can hold us back. When you’re used to picturing success, it feels less scary to make it happen in real life.
  7. Celebrate Small Wins Don’t measure your success only by numbers or dates. Give yourself credit for taking action, even if it didn’t go perfectly. Every time you step out of your comfort zone, you’re winning. Asian guys often feel like we have to reach some high bar to feel “worthy.” But the truth is, progress itself is success. Recognize each step forward, and confidence will come more naturally.

These steps won’t erase approach anxiety overnight, but they’ll help you make real progress and build confidence over time. If you want to dive deeper with examples and explanations, check out the full video here.

https://preview.redd.it/ag7ftj5ph4zd1.jpg?width=1920&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=771ec0a56ba5c31ee834707a6f9c59b4be22bde5

And feel free to share any tips that have helped you—or ask questions if you’re struggling or interested in more advanced AA management techniques. We’re all here to support each other.

0 Comments
2024/11/05
18:07 UTC

1

How To Invest In China's Volatile Stock Market | Money Mind | Investment

0 Comments
2024/11/04
23:35 UTC

2

Sweethearts | Official Trailer | Max - Two best friends, one breakup pact...what can go wrong?

0 Comments
2024/11/04
01:54 UTC

2

Shohei Ohtani is a World Series champ!!! | MLB Tonight

0 Comments
2024/11/02
21:44 UTC

1

How A Taiwanese Immigrant Became A Multibillionaire Supplying America With Plastic Pipes

0 Comments
2024/10/29
19:21 UTC

0

The Lies About Confidence Every Asian Man Should Know...

0 Comments
2024/10/28
17:31 UTC

0

How I Built an $80M Annual Revenue Business in Just 5 Years | Sandbox VR, Steven Zhao

0 Comments
2024/10/25
10:14 UTC

1

[VIDEO] My Biggest Mistake Early On When I Was Learning Dating & Social Skills... Don't Compare Yourself And Your Successes To White Men

For years, I struggled with dating while constantly comparing myself to my 3 white friends who were my main wingmen. They seemed to be succeeding effortlessly, getting dates and making connections while I felt like I was always falling short. And we had all started at the saame time, but like a couple of months in, I felt like I was being left in the dust by their progress and the immediate, positive reactions from women they'd get.

Every time I saw them with women, I couldn’t help but wonder, What am I doing wrong? This constant comparison nearly ruined my confidence and my dating life.

I was putting in the work—going out four to six nights a week, practicing my approaches, racking up hundreds of interactions—but every small win felt like it wasn’t enough compared to their success. It was exhausting, and each time I compared myself to them, I felt more discouraged. I started to internalize the belief that my race, my height, and my appearance as an Asian guy were holding me back. That’s when I realized I was stuck in a toxic loop of comparison.

But here’s the breakthrough I had: Everyone has their own unique journey.

My white friends weren’t necessarily “better” at dating—they were playing the game on a different difficulty level due to societal perceptions. Once I stopped measuring my progress against theirs and started focusing on my own growth and improvements, everything began to change for me.

It wasn’t easy, but the moment I shifted my mindset and began to focus on my own journey instead of feeling inadequate compared to others, I started seeing real results. I embraced my uniqueness, worked on my self-confidence, and let go of the idea that I had to match anyone else's progress to feel successful.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not measuring up, or if comparison is holding you back in dating (or life), I want to share my story and how I overcame this mindset. My latest video dives deep into the struggles I faced and how I finally let go of comparison to transform my dating life.

You can check out the full video here: https://youtu.be/dmqMBKtYOrI

0 Comments
2024/10/21
17:16 UTC

4

How Korea’s Sex Trade Was Built For U.S. Soldiers: These women, who were tricked into prostitution for U.S. soldiers, are sharing their stories for the first time. Women suspected of having STDs were locked in a detention center known as “monkey house,” as soldiers likened them to monkeys.

0 Comments
2024/10/21
10:03 UTC

1

Grammy Award winner music producer !llmind created an AI music production tool LoopMagic for creating copyright-free loops and sounds instantly with just a prompt. Asian Americans are leading the way in music innovation!

0 Comments
2024/10/15
20:11 UTC

1

[VIDEO] For Our ESL (English Second Language) Asians, Use Body Language To Convey Your Personality and Confidence

Up to 93% of communication is nonverbal. According to a study by Dr. Albert Mehrabian, 55% of what we communicate comes from body language, 38% from tone of voice, and only 7% from the actual words we use.

So, if English isn’t your first language or you’re not fully confident in it, don’t stress. I've taught entire bootcamps where everyone was a FOB so it'd be pretty useless trying to teach them what to say. The truth is, the one universal language everyone understands on this planet is body language.

Mastering body language can still help you project confidence and attract women effortlessly. It’s about how you carry yourself, not just what you say, and that’s something everyone can control.

Here are a few tips to help you master body language:

  1. Overcome the "Asian Poker Face": Many of us grew up in environments where emotions weren’t openly expressed, leading to what I call the "Asian Poker Face." We might not smile as much or emote at the level expected by the mainstream audience. But in Western cultures, a genuine smile can be a game-changer. It signals warmth and approachability, so practice smiling naturally during conversations.
  2. Avoid the "Bobblehead Syndrome": Nodding excessively is common in some cultures (notably in Japan and India), but in the West, it can come off as overly agreeable or submissive. Use nodding sparingly to show understanding without overdoing it.
  3. Micro-Expressions Matter: Your emotions show up in subtle ways on your face—whether you’re confident, nervous, or relaxed. These micro-expressions are universal and can be read unconsciously by others. Be aware of how you feel because it will show on your face, whether you realize it or not.
  4. Posture is Key: When you feel anxious, your body tends to close off—crossed arms, slouched posture, or lowered head. Instead, try standing tall, keep your shoulders back, and maintain an open posture. This projects confidence and makes people feel comfortable around you.
  5. Eye Contact = Confidence: Eye contact is a powerful way to convey confidence and trust. In Western culture, avoiding eye contact can make you seem insecure or disinterested. Practice holding steady eye contact when you talk or listen to others—it builds attraction without needing to say a word.

Remember, body language is key to projecting confidence. Advanced techniques like Body Language Positioning (BLP), energy, tonality, hand gestures, slowness vs fastness, pauses in speech, and more can help you communicate high value, non-neediness, and even sexuality. These are areas I might explore in future content if you’re interested.

For now, check out this video where I break down how body language can help you attract women: https://youtu.be/JSQteKwC3T0

1 Comment
2024/10/14
17:17 UTC

1

Can Math Help Repair Democracy? | Sam Wang | TED - From detecting gerrymandered districts to predicting the impact of alternative election methods like ranked-choice voting, Sam Wang outlines how computer simulations can help fix the bugs in US democracy and make it more responsive to the people.

0 Comments
2024/10/14
10:47 UTC

3

Are Asians Past The Stereotypes?

0 Comments
2024/10/12
17:04 UTC

Back To Top