Mexico has the highest rate of workplace stress in the world, according to the Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) and the International Labor Organization (ILO).
STPS data reveal that 75 percent of Mexican workers suffer from work-related stress. (I have the business cards for the other 25 percent.) This is higher than China, 73 percent, and the United States, 59 percent. But beside this underrated work ethic, there is also an uncelebrated creative drive that seems to be a part of Mexican culture. As most of you know, they have invented a number of practical things we use today, from the humble toilet float that resets your tank with water each time you use it, to the color television, to the birth control pill, to chocolate, and popcorn, and on and on.
But it is the practical way Mexicans repurpose things that amazes me, because I’m fascinated by the humble but creative reincarnations of otherwise disposable objects (called upcycling).
Please login or subscribe to view the complete article.