One of the most prominent aspects of US culture, is the tendency to go-go-go. Better described as a constant sense of urgency, US culture encourages those who live within the country’s boundaries to live-to-work instead of working-to-live. When living in the United States, there is always somewhere to go, people to see, and things to do. Although feeling so rushed in my everyday activities has had its benefits—I always get what I need to get done, done—I cannot wait to live life at a slower pace. America is the birth place of the “rat race” and although working-from-home has increased significantly, there is not much cultural space for rest and relaxation in an American work schedule. I imagine that this mindset is spurred by our country’s Capitalist structure. Having been founded upon the philosophy, I do not think this aspect of US culture will change anytime soon. I look forward to breaking out of this mold.
The fast-paced nature of American life is very different from the pace of French life. I want to enjoy my days by walking places without feeling rushed, eating without worrying about a to-do list, and seeing my friends and loved ones without thinking about everyone I haven’t been able to see yet. I am excited that French culture values living at a slower pace. As a culture that actively discourages stress, I am excited to immerse myself in a culture so different from my own. As an already anxious individual, the rushed nature of American life is harmful to both my mind and my body and I look forward to seeing how living Europe will compare.
When thinking about how Europeans and outsiders perceive the United States and this aspect of our culture, I imagine that they are confused. What is life if it not about the people you spend time with, the things you do when you are not working, the food you thoughtfully consume, and the experiences you truly immerse yourself in? I think this aspect of our culture is sad from an outsiders’ perspective, and I would like to imagine that the rest of the world wants the United States to slow down and savor life for more than profits and politics. I think changing the pace of my living will allow me to appreciate life more, therefore allowing me to be happier than I would be otherwise.
Reflecting on where I am coming from and where I am going has helped me prepare for the changes I am about to experience. Life abroad is going to be so much different than what I am used to, and writing, reflecting, and meditating has helped me accept that I have to be prepared for both the good and the bad. I am ready and willing to experience change, even if that change pains me at times.
I am embracing the unknown. I am thrilled by the idea of living like I never have before and I look forward to sharing more about my experiences here.
