Europeans Expose 12 Uncomfortable Truths Americans Need to Hear

Exploring the differences between American and European cultures can be eye-opening. There are lots of things in Europe that might surprise or puzzle Americans. And there are things in America that EU people think can improve.

Let’s discuss the key aspects that need improvement in America through the European eyes.

1. Basic Human Needs

Education and healthcare costs shouldn’t financially burden individuals. These vital services should not cause immense financial strain on families. 

2. Sugar Everywhere

Sugar is frequently added to various foods, such as bread, even where it’s unnecessary. This excess sugar in everyday products isn’t healthy and can contribute to health issues, indicating that the widespread use of sugar might not benefit one’s well-being. Why would you want sweet bread? 

3. South Park 

South Park aims to humorously represent real-life events, but people say it’s too much like America sometimes. It’s supposed to be an exaggerated comedy that pokes fun at global occurrences and societal issues, but it doesn’t seek to accurately reflect reality.

4. Tipping Culture

Depending on tips for service staff income isn’t ideal; a better approach would be fair wages. While tipping based on excellent service or as an act of appreciation is understandable, having tipping as a significant part of workers’ income isn’t the most just system.

5. Accessibility to Services

In some countries, access to various services may come at a cost, impacting the sense of freedom. This pay-to-access structure might restrict certain rights or services that are otherwise freely available in different regions, affecting the concept of liberty and ease of access, like healthcare.

6. Paid Time Off

Having 25 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) should be considered a standard benefit for workers. PTO refers to paid leave from work for vacations or personal time, which is crucial for achieving a healthy work-life balance.

Some companies don’t even have a maximum PTO because they value their employees having a healthy work-life balance.

7. Different Backgrounds

Your ancestry might be from a different country, but you are American if you were born in America. While it’s acceptable and good to acknowledge your ancestral heritage, being American remains your nationality, even if you have some Nordic or Irish blood.

8. Not Having an Opinion

The idea that everyone should always have a quick opinion is common in the U.S., where there’s a strong culture of expressing individual views. Sometimes, it’s better to step back and not rush into forming an opinion; instead, gather information before expressing your thoughts. 

It’s okay to not have an opinion for a while. After researching a topic, you can engage in discussions more thoughtfully and be better informed. 

9. Feeling of Safety 

Using a weapon in a dangerous situation may not always be effective, especially without proper training. High-stress situations can lead to unexpected outcomes, and relying on a firearm may not guarantee safety or security, as adrenaline and stress responses can greatly affect one’s abilities.

10. More Sidewalks

The U.S. doesn’t have lots of good sidewalks, and designing more walkable spaces could help reduce the issue of obesity in America. Creating environments where people can easily walk and engage in physical activities might contribute to fewer cases of obesity, improving public health.

11. Europe Isn’t a Country

Europe is not one big country; it’s a whole continent with many different countries. Each country has its special things like languages, cultures, and histories. People from America might think and speak of Europe as one place, while Europe is made up of many different countries.

12. Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance is often challenging in the U.S. due to a culture that values long working hours and dedication to your career. The expectation of being constantly available makes it difficult to fully disengage from work during personal time. Additionally, economic pressures and job competition can lead to a fear of job loss, pushing people to overcommit to work.

Achieving a balance between work and personal life is essential. Work should not be the only priority, and individuals should have the opportunity to enjoy their lives outside of their jobs, fostering a healthier and more fulfilling existence.

I Tried Living the European Way: 10 Luxuries That Left Me Wondering, ‘Why Don’t Americans Have This?’

The internet sure is a pool of information. I was scrolling the front page of the internet when I saw this question, “Americans, what do Europeans have every day that you see as a luxury?” the top-voted responses are quite interesting, so I had to share these with you.

Because what do they have every day that Americans don’t?

• I Tried Living the European Way: 10 Luxuries That Left Me Wondering, ‘Why Don’t Americans Have This?’