The most common aspect of U.S. culture is our independent mindsets. Not only this but just how much freedom we are given within the country can allow us to feel independent of our own choices as well. By this independent mindset, I refer that in contrast to other countries where they value family and collectivity, we on the other hand strongly stand for us being solely responsible for ourselves and that we must keep pushing towards growth or goals on our own.
I come from a Latino family where our beliefs are quite the opposite. But given that I was born and raised in the U.S it was very difficult to not adapt to this individualistic mindset. But because I have always found a struggle between the two cultures I was raised in, I have found that I switch back and forth from this aspect of U.S. culture. I think that it has definitely for the better prepared me for the many things that I have done up until now, and will continue to go with me wherever I go.
This being said I think that someone who resides outside of the US and the culture would probably view this individuality that a lot of Americans have as maybe a bit odd or just be very surprised by it which completely makes sense. I think it would be a bit difficult for anyone really to fully understand another culture because we were raised in another culture and that has impacted our values, biases, and morals.
But all in all, I think that this exercise has helped me think about how I will in fact be that person going into another culture and experiencing (not for the first time since I have already been there ) but at least in a completely new way since I will be going to new locations and meeting completely different people. So this just serves as a mental awakening for me and ensures me that I should go with an open mindset and that even if there are things that I might not agree with it is about understanding and at the very least taking into consideration the other person’s perspective.