When comparing the cultures of two different countries, most people will discuss the obvious differences like cultural cuisine, traditions, and history. When discussing the contrasts between Spain and The United States, most are very obvious, however, amidst the most frequently compared aspects is the significant difference in work culture. With differing work prioritization levels, the two countries develop a number of other societal norms as a result. Career and the level of education you obtain as an American are incredibly important and are shaped by American pressues. Spanish culture on the other hand is focused on interpersonal relationships, especially with family, and takes a more relaxed take on time management.
When I think of The United States, I think of the phrase “The American Dream” which is associated with the idea that you can achieve all you want in the States. This is due to the fact that The United States comprises dozens of nationalities and cultures, most of whom have left poor life conditions and work to pursue better opportunities. Unfortunately, this creates a fast paced working culture within The United States. People are up as early as 3am to work the jobs that are necessary to pay for the high cost of living. Being that a majority of major cities in the States have a high cost of living- it is very normalized to work more than one job. In high cost of living states like Hawaii, there are statistics showing sleep deprivation due to how many jobs residents have to work to pay for cost of living.
Being raised as an American means growing up to understand that it is a standard to pursue a job that pays a lot and holds status you’re seen as a failure. From personal experience, I learned that this is important because of generational history. Many families, specifically second generation children are expected to be successful in order to reciprocate the sacrifices and struggles their family went through to make it to America. My parents immigrated from the Philippines two decades ago and have since expressed the importance of hard work. I have always understood the importance of taking advantage of my privilege of having education and access to better choices in career. Because of this I have revolved most of my life around finding a job that pays well and working often. When I was in High School, I vividly remember people bragging that they had a job and had money to spend. Popular culture in the states is also linked to “Hustle Culture” and getting rich. In music, mainstream artists preach about working hard for their money and encourage their listeners to do the same. Many major careers have normalized 80-100 hour long work weeks like Accounting, Investment Banking, Law, and Politics. Alongside long work hours- Americans have the shorter end of the stick in terms of work benefits like paid and sick leave, maternity leave, and vacation.
In comparison, Spain is a more ethnically homogenous country. Many of the kids being brought up in the country have generations of history in Spain. It is not likely that a family living in Spain had immigrated and became a citizen of the country- they are born citizens. Because of this, lots of children don’t hold the burden of having to support their family or the need to reciprocate the same “sacrifices”. Since arriving in Spain the topic of work is not much of a conversation, even in the school setting. I have yet to have professors ask what my major is or plan for my career. A lot of conversations are surrounded around hobbies, culture, socialization, and experiences. Every night before lunch or dinner, my roommate and I sit in the living room with our host mom and all the conversations we’ve had are about her children and grandchildren. Not once has she mentioned what they do- it’s always where they’re traveling to, their hobbies, or where they ended up relocating to. My host mom revels in the reminiscence of vacation memories with her late husband and her kids showing that their greatest joys in life are directly linked to experiences rather than career success. In comparison to American topics of conversation, a majority of openers are related to what you do for work. Even as a college student, the first question a family member or friend will ask is related to my choice in major.
In the states, colleges and universities are ranked by prominence and top tier educations are only obtained from Ivy League universities. If you are able to attend an Ivy League, you are praised because of the reputation these colleges have. In Spain, there is a general appreciation for the importance and value of education regardless of where you attended. Attending any college or university is seen as a genuine academic accomplishment and the thought of a specific university doesn’t invoke a new sense of awe or elitism.
Due to the difference between American and Spanish work culture, it directly affects their daily schedules. The most difficult change I experienced during my time in Spain is how slow the day starts. I found that it directly affects the rest of my day. I feel that in the US it is crucial to wake up at certain times to maximize productivity and improve your day. In the US, I wake up at 5:30am, sometimes 5:00am to make sure I have the rest of the day planned out. I also wake up earlier to beat the morning rush traffic. Here in Spain, it’s difficult to wake up early because there is nothing to do before 8am. Cafes open at 8am at the earliest making it difficult for me to complete my work before class as I usually would in the states. Spanish people have “Siesta” which is a few hours in the afternoon where they can go home and take a nap, and this is usually after a large lunch as well. This emphasizes the importance of their desire for leisure, relaxation, and most importantly the opportunity to connect with friends and family. Americans usually take their lunch at work or school, spending most of the day away from their families.
The differences between Spaniards and Americans attitudes towards work and individual achievement also paint the contrast between the two countries’ societal values. Americans put academic achievement and career over the relaxed approach that Spaniards have. My time as a student in Spain, despite a difficult transition, has shifted my views on work-life balance. When I return to America, I will definitely incorporate more of the Spanish culture into my daily routine and reach out to friends and family for a drink or take a few walks during the day. The ability to recognize the value of taking time off and maintaining relationships outside of work is important for one’s well being and Americans should definitely take a page out of a Spaniard's book.