A British expatriate reflects on her two-decade experience living and working in the United States, highlighting the stark differences in work-life balance between the UK and the US. Despite the higher salaries, she finds it challenging to adjust to the demanding American work culture. The author expresses a desire to move to another country where she can achieve a healthier lifestyle and deeper personal connections.

The Allure of Higher Salaries vs. Unhealthy Work Demands

While living in the United States has provided financial benefits, the author emphasizes that these come at a significant cost. Although she earns more than she would in the UK, the relentless work demands have made maintaining a balanced life extremely difficult. She notes that in the US, particularly on the East Coast, work often overshadows personal time, leading to an unbalanced lifestyle.

Despite earning between $50k and $85k annually, which is considerably higher than the typical UK salary range of $30K to $40K, the pressure to be constantly available for work has taken its toll. The author recounts instances where she had to cancel plans due to work commitments or faced overwhelming email volumes outside regular hours. This relentless pace contrasts sharply with European work environments, where employees are encouraged to leave work at the office. Even simple pleasures like leisurely lunches are rare, as many coworkers prefer to eat quickly at their desks. The author tries to set boundaries, such as not responding to emails before 8:30 AM or after 5:30 PM, but this practice is uncommon among her colleagues. She often feels isolated, eating alone during lunch breaks, especially when the weather is poor.

Seeking Simplicity and Genuine Connections Abroad

The author's longing for a simpler, more connected life is evident in her reflections on European work culture. She recalls how her parents, who worked in the UK for over three decades, enjoyed longer breaks that included social outings with coworkers. These memories contrast sharply with her experiences in the US, where genuine connections seem harder to come by. Living in Boston, a city she admires for its charm and history, she still finds it challenging to form meaningful relationships with locals who rarely engage in casual conversations on the streets.

Although living in the US has boosted her confidence and given her opportunities she might not have had in the UK, the lack of true connections and the constant hustle have left her yearning for change. She dreams of moving to a country where quality of life, cultural richness, and retirement prospects offer more balance and fulfillment. In the meantime, she continues to advocate for better work-life balance within her workplace, hoping to inspire others to prioritize personal well-being over endless work demands. Ultimately, her story underscores the importance of finding a place where one can thrive both professionally and personally.