One aspect of the American culture that has become increasingly apparent to me as I grow up here is the work culture. The United States has a major ‘hustle’ culture, where we can almost always be described as “workaholics” or, the culture that works to work, constantly trying to climb the ranks and progress professionally. The American Dream has been heavily emphasized in our culture and is something many Americans pride themselves on. Additionally, many people from all over the world have come to the States to experience this lifestyle for themselves, assuming that this way of living and lifestyle is how they will ‘make it’.
While many people seem perfectly content with this aspect of the American culture, the more I have thought about it and experience it first hand, I realize that I do not necessarily approve of this way of living. As I have traveled outside of the U.S. and experienced different ways of living, I see the downfalls of placing such a heavy emphasis on working to work instead of to live. I think we have a lack of community, free time to indulge in hobbies or other interests, and do not have enough time to enjoy the simplicities of life or to take care of our bodies (making sure we have time to workout, grocery shop, etc). Although there might be an opportunity to make more money in the United States than in other countries, I often ask myself at what cost? I do not agree with the individualistic and “every man for himself” mindset that has infiltrated our society, nor do I think that our working environments allow for us to live our fullest lives as they are meant to be lived. In my opinion U.S. companies do not give their employees enough vacation time, PTO, parental leave, or additional benefits that help contribute to our quality of life. We are expected to work the majority of every day, for the majority of days of the year, with not a large about of ROI (besides a pay check, which may or may not be sufficient for the amount of work you are tasked with). I personally feel sad whenever I think about our work and professional culture, because it seems to be stripping us from enjoying other important parts of life!
I think that someone outside of the U.S. may also view this cultural/societal aspect of ours as negative. I have family that lives in France and they have always told me how different their working/professional experiences are. They have much more vacation time, PTO, and do not revolve their lives around work. There is a heavy emphasis on multifaceted lifestyles, to which they feel that the United States does not have. When thinking about other cultures and places in the world, I would imagine that most cultures think similarly to this, and believe that the U.S. is a country of workers.
This exercise will help me to be more aware or cultural and/or societal differences before I depart for Australia. This way, as soon as I touch down in my new home for the next couple of months, I will be hyper-aware of these differences as well as any other differences that may become apparent to me. I am excited to see and immerse myself into the Australian lifestyle, and partake in many exciting activities that will no doubt give provide me with a completely new experience and way of living that I am used to.