10 Hard Truths About America I Discovered After a Decade Living Abroad

There’s something eye-opening about spending time away from home. The distance offers a fresh perspective and highlights things we often overlook. After a decade abroad, I returned to the U.S. with a deeper appreciation for some things and a clearer view of others. Here are some truths I noticed.

1) Healthcare Confusion

In many countries, healthcare feels straightforward. You get treatment without hidden costs. In contrast, navigating U.S. healthcare can feel like a labyrinth, with unexpected bills and complex insurance options. A sprained ankle may cost you as much as dinner overseas, but at home, a simple visit can leave you unsure about your expenses. This uncertainty often leads people to delay care, which can be damaging both physically and mentally.

2) Work as Identity

In the U.S., the first question often asked is, “What do you do?” This focus on work defines our identities. However, while work is important, it shouldn’t be everything. When our self-worth is tied to our jobs, any setbacks can feel devastating. The truth is, we should find purpose beyond productivity.

3) Taking Time Off

While living abroad, I witnessed how people use vacation days for well-being, not as a luxury. In the U.S., many hesitate to take time off, treating it like a scarce resource. This grind can hurt creativity and overall health. Rest is essential for a balanced life, so it’s vital for everyone, especially employers, to encourage time away from work.

4) Dependence on Cars

Living in walkable cities changed my mindset. There, errands felt less like chores and more like pleasant strolls. Here, car dependency often isolates us. When driving is the only option, it can limit our freedom and disconnect us from our communities.

5) Tipping System

After years in countries where workers earn a living wage without relying on tips, returning to the U.S. was a shock. Tipping has become a norm in many situations, often creating awkward interactions. It’s essential to reconsider how we support service workers while ensuring they have stable incomes.

6) Food Portions

Abroad, the portion sizes matched the body’s needs. Here, oversized servings blur our sense of fullness. When “more” is standard, it becomes hard to gauge when we’ve had enough. We need to re-establish our understanding of food and portions.

7) Loneliness

I noticed that connections form easily abroad due to shared spaces and daily routines. In the U.S., even friendly neighborhoods can feel detached, leading to increased loneliness. Our reliance on screens for connection cannot replace real community.

8) Housing Challenges

In years spent abroad, long-term renting was accepted and stable. In the U.S., rising rents and sudden evictions create uncertainty. Housing should be a basic need, not just an investment opportunity. This instability affects everything from mental health to community relationships.

9) Public Spaces

Overseas, parks are welcoming and common. In contrast, U.S. public spaces can feel neglected. When we don’t invest in shared areas, we miss out on opportunities for community interaction and joy.

10) Media Polarization

Living abroad taught me to seek multiple news sources for a balanced view. Many U.S. media outlets thrive on conflict, making it harder to see the whole picture. Nuance in reporting can provide clarity and understanding, encouraging informed dialogue.

11) Consumer Culture

While I love well-made items, living in smaller spaces abroad shifted my mindset about possessions. Here, it’s easy to feel pressured to accumulate more. Recognizing the difference between needs and wants can lead to a simpler, more fulfilling life.

Final Thoughts

These observations stem from a place of love for America, not criticism. Each culture has pros and cons. The key is to be aware of our surroundings and make choices that enhance our lives.

Here are some practical changes I embraced after returning:

• Connect with People: Make an effort to know your neighbors and engage in community activities.
• Prioritize Rest: Schedule breaks as seriously as work deadlines.
• Simplify Healthcare: Choose a local clinic and keep track of your health questions.
• Practice Mindful Eating: Learn to recognize when you’ve had enough food.
• Diversify Your News: Read various sources to get a holistic view of events.
• Support Public Spaces: Get involved in local initiatives to improve community areas.

Systems shape behavior, but individual choices also matter. We have the power to create a better life within our culture. What small step will you take today?

For more insights on health and well-being in America, you can read this recent report from the CDC.

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