What Americans can learn from Europeans about work-life

Let’s be real for a second—Americans have a complicated relationship with work. We’re always on, hustle culture is real thing and we often brag about our crazy schedules like they are awards for winning at life.

Have you ever taken a moment to consider how our friends across the pond handle their work-life balance? After traveling to Europe you start to notice that the pace is not the same. It seems it involves a lot less burnout and a lot more “me time.”

1. Vacations are non-negotiable

Americans tend to treat vacations like they’re optional, squeezing in a day or two here and there, while silently apologizing to bosses for daring to take a break. Europeans? Oh, they’re practically born with a suitcase in one hand and a plane ticket in the other.

The French have their whole country shut down for the month of August. Imagine telling your boss you’re off for four weeks—your job might not be waiting for you when you get back.

But in Europe, they’ve mastered the art of long, guilt-free vacations, and guess what? Their economies haven’t crumbled. Maybe there’s something to that whole “rested and recharged” thing.

2. Lunch is quality time

In the U.S., lunch often looks like a sad sandwich scarfed down in front of a computer screen, or worse, not at all between running errands. But in Europe, especially in countries like Italy and Spain, lunch is a full-on event. We’re talking about multi-course meals, a glass of wine (yes, during work hours!), and time to actually enjoy your food.

They treat lunch like a mini-vacation in the middle of the day. And don’t ask for the check, they expect you stay and enjoy yourself for hours.

3. The 35-hour work week is a thing

While many Americans are clocking 50-60 hour work weeks and dreaming of the weekend, the French are out here living their best lives with a 35-hour work week. And no, they’re not secretly working overtime.

They’re just really good at getting things done efficiently and then heading home to enjoy the other parts of life. Imagine the possibilities: actually having time to pursue hobbies, hang out with friends, or just binge-watch a show without feeling guilty.

4. Work to live, don’t live to work

In Europe, work is just one part of life, not the whole shebang. People work to live, not live to work.

It’s all about balance.

They’ve embraced the idea that a life well-lived includes time spent with loved ones, exploring passions, and yes, doing absolutely nothing sometimes. The hustle culture hasn’t taken over, and people are better for it—healthier, happier, and generally more relaxed.

5. Embrace the power of saying “No”

Ever notice how Americans have a hard time saying “no” to extra projects, late-night emails, and weekend work? Europeans have a different approach.

They’ve mastered the art of politely but firmly declining when they’re at capacity. “No” is a complete sentence, and they’re not afraid to use it. It’s about setting boundaries and knowing that work will still be there tomorrow.

6. The art of the siesta

Okay, so maybe not all European countries are taking daily naps, but the Spanish have definitely made a strong case for it with their siesta tradition.

Imagine a world where, in the middle of the day, it’s perfectly normal to take a nap, recharge, and then get back to work. It’s the ultimate power move in self-care and productivity.

7. Weekends are sacred

For many Europeans, weekends are truly off-limits for work. No emails, no calls, just pure, unadulterated leisure time. Whether it’s hiking, spending time with family, or just lounging around, they make the most of those two days.

Meanwhile, in America, weekends often become “catch-up” days. It’s time we reclaimed our Saturdays and Sundays for actual relaxation.

So maybe it’s time to step away from the keyboard, savor that salad, and realize that your inbox can wait.

So, what can Americans learn from Europeans about work-life balance? A lot, actually. It’s about working smarter, not harder, and realizing that life isn’t just about the grind. It’s about enjoying the ride, taking time for yourself, and maybe, just maybe, indulging in a little midday wine. Cheers to that!