The US is full of habits & practices that no one ever questions. Americans accept such traditions as part of life. Yet some of them seem outdated, even pointless. And they are not seen in most other countries.
Here are some everyday conventions in the U.S. that might not be as essential as they seem.
Tipping for Every Service
In America, tipping is expected for almost any service; for meals, haircuts, hotel stays, etc. Most people don’t question it, even though these tips can add up quickly.
In most countries, workers are paid in full without relying on any tipping. In the US, though, it’s just expected that consumers must make up the difference.
Obsessing Over High School Proms
For many American teens, prom night is a special occasion. It costs hundreds of dollars to buy dresses, tuxedos and limos for one night.
In most other countries, high school dances are simpler. American proms are so well established that nobody even thinks to ask if it’s necessary.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
Driving Everywhere
Americans rely on cars for everything in cities. Even when a place is only a few minutes away, driving is always the most likely option. There are few public transport options. And walking is not always an option. This dependence on cars even adds costs and traffic.
Celebrating Black Friday
Americans line up early on Black Friday after Thanksgiving every year. Some even camp outside shops for deals. It’s a big tradition. But it’s a stressful, maddening way to shop.
The frenzy usually makes you stressed and panicked, but it’s what everyone knows as “normal”.
Saying the Pledge of Allegiance in Schools
In American schools, students often recite the Pledge of Allegiance every day. The vast majority of children are raised to do so without ever realizing why. Nobody ever looks back and wonders what, or why, it is. It’s just part of the routine & not seen in many other countries.
Tons of Standardized Testing
American children study for a lot of tests at school. SATs, ACTs and more exams are part of school.
Many embrace this without question, despite the fact that it creates anxiety & does not always reflect actual skill. Tests are less aggressive or common in many other countries.
Using Imperial Measurements
Miles, feet and inches are still the standard way of measuring things among Americans. The rest of the world is mostly in the metric system. This ancient system complicates math and conversions, but nobody bothers to challenge it.
Huge College Sports Culture
College sports have stadiums and fan bases across the United States. Students, alumni, and communities treat these games like professional sporting events.
College sports are nowhere near as popular in other countries, but Americans never question the reason why.
Celebrating Graduation Ceremonies at Every Level
In America, there’s a school graduation for kindergarten, elementary, middle, high school and beyond. Every ceremony is crowned with caps, dresses, and diplomas. They’re fun but a little overkill.
Greeting Strangers With “How Are You?”
In the United States, we often greet strangers with “How are you?” No one is asking for an honest response; it’s just a polite question. It’s a friendly but meaningless or empty phrase. Many other countries don’t have this polite obligation.
Like our content? Be sure to follow us.
