There are many different ways people value time. A significant aspect of the United States culture is that time is valued in the sense of how it can be used productively. As a goal-oriented society, a common perspective is that in order to be successful, every second of every day should be used to work towards goals. The United States is known for being a place full of opportunities, which places pressure on society to be able to control your environment and situation.
While this can be a positive aspect of U.S. culture, it causes success to often come at the expense of meaningful relationships, day-to-day human connection, and health. It is normal for students to attend six hours of school, then an athletic practice or work, and spend the remainder of the day doing homework. Often that leaves meals, social time, relaxation, and even sleep to be missed or squeezed in as a last priority. I think there is a lot of guilt that surrounds relaxation and in our society it is seen as something that needs to be earned. Connecting with those around us is so important, and in the end matters more than what work we’ve accomplished during a day. There should be a balance of work, play, and love in each day. It would be beneficial if this aspect of our culture could shift to a balance of using time productively, while also highly valuing time spent being present with others.
In general, I believe many people outside the United States would agree with me. My brother studied abroad in Rome and I’ve done a lot of research regarding the culture there so I have a shallow understanding of how this cultural aspect may differ specifically in Italy. Simple things like the length of Italian meals and riposo exemplify how Italians value taking time for pleasure. I couldn’t believe it when I heard about risposo, which translates to rest. It is when Italians close their businesses and restaurants during the day for a few hours and go home to take a nap, spend time with their family, eat a meal, or simply rest. I’m sure there are other cultures similar to the United States in the aspect of time and productivity, however, I think many europeans would find this aspect of U.S. culture exhausting and unfulfilling in comparison to the way they live.
Reflecting on this has helped me further understand that the lifestyle I am used to and have lived for 20 years, may tremendously differ from the lifestyles of the Romans around me. The flow of their life will be something I may need to get used to, but I am also really excited to experience. I look forward to focusing on rest, longer meals, being present, and using my time to connect with those with me in Rome.