In a social transitional period, Chinese face numerous challenges. Reforms have ended the "iron rice bowl" system of cradle-to-grave social welfare. Chinese have to earn money for housing, medical insurance, retirement pension (退休金) and educationg Now people work harder than before to keep thei5 competitive edge and grasp opportunities.

Chinese put priority on the quality of life, instead of quantity, particularly in terms of mentalities. People pay more attention to the essence of life, and care more about their own feelings. The words "pressure", "competition" exist in daily vocabulary. Chinese possess not only sophisticated lifestyles, but also very positive views of life.

Chinese in the social transitional period are full of confidence in their future. In spite of setbacks and difficulties, people believe that "reforms" means countless opportunities and more benefits to them. They think tomorrow will be better than today.