Life Lessons from Living Abroad: A Fresh Perspective

Life in Europe taught a valuable lesson: meals are not just about eating. They are about enjoying and connecting. In the US, it was common to eat quickly, often at a desk. But in Europe, meals became a time to relax and enjoy. Cafes and restaurants made it easy to take a break and savor food. This change was not about making every meal formal. It was about being more mindful of eating and drinking. One big surprise was the lack of hustle culture. In the US, there was always pressure to work more to earn more. But in Europe, people valued their time off and took their vacations seriously. Now back in the US, finding a job that respects work-life balance is a priority. Shopping for food also changed. In the US, buying fresh produce from farmers markets seemed like a luxury. But in Budapest, it was easy and affordable. Fresh food was accessible, and shopping became a daily habit. Moving back to the US, the cost of healthy food was a shock. But the habit of choosing healthier ingredients stuck, even if it's harder to find. Living in a place where English wasn't the main language also made a difference. Speaking more slowly and clearly became necessary. This led to better listening skills and more thoughtful conversations. It also meant being more aware of cultural differences. In Hungary, small talk was seen as invasive. Questions like "How are you? " were considered personal. Learning to tone down small talk was important, but so was keeping the friendly nature. Back in the US, the warmth of small talk is missed. Striking up a conversation with a stranger is a simple but meaningful connection. It's important to keep that openness, no matter where life takes you.