How can I be more American?

Question

I come from a Northern European country and my English is fluent. I've lived in the suburbs of a major US city for 2 years now but I really don't seem to fit in, even though I try. I find the food servings far too large, heavy and fattening. I think the majority of network TV programmes is too bland and aimed at a low IQ level. The news almost seems censored with its US-centred view of the world. I also think most people I seem to meet are rather naiive and parochial with their view of their country and the world. But I want to try... how can I be more American?

Answer 1

your observations are correct, don't know what to tell ya'

Answer 2

Well, that depends on what you think to be an American really means. In my view and from my own experience, the typical American is freedom loving and very individualistic (not to be confused with selfish, though). Americans love their free markets because it works for them.

On the plus side, Americans are hospitable, generous, responsible and honest in their dealings with everybody; they think that everyone should have a chance or two to succeed in life; they possess an unbounded optimism for life and all good things. They love freedom and want everybody else to experience it.

On the minus side, many Americans don't really care to learn about other cultures, languages or viewpoints outside of their own cities (thus, their worldview tends to be quite provincial, misinformed, oversimplistic and naive). Their love for their own kind of freedom often leads them to treat other political systems with unfounded disdain. They often lump together socialism, comunism and other forms of 'isms' that do not match their capitalistic view of the world.

As for big portions of food, yes, granted, that started in America, but the plague of obesity as a health problem has gone beyond American borders; obesity rates are rising in most industrialized nations right now.

Like someone else said it, just be yourself, take the good with the bad.

Answer 3

the best people are always those that behave like true humans, no matter where you live by acting mature and smart you will not only be able to fit in but to control the society. after all, this is a human world not an animal world, nature favours us. if you want to be anything, be a human.

Answer 4

Dont be, just be yourself. Thats the American way. You will eventually find your peers. they are out there. Try coffee shops and jazz clubs, places like that. It takes time to meet the right people, but when you do you'll be right as rain

Answer 5

Just be yourself, keep your personal values. You just need to find other Americans who share your taste in food, TV, etc. I have been an American all my life and I sometimes feel like I do not fit in. Just respect yourself and be true to yourself.

Answer 6

why u wanna be more American ? just be ur self, no matter what u do u gonna still be a North European living in America.

Answer 7

America is about diversity so be yourself.

It can also mean being materialistic and idiotic being American so stick to yourself.

Chicks like foreigners anywho.

Answer 8

Why are you trying to be more American? Be who you are! I like not fitting in...'No one can make you feel inferior without your own consent!' (Elenore Roosevelt).

Answer 9

Try a frontal lobotomy....
Or you could just move to australia...or canada, or new zealand, or england, then you wouldn't have to be american at all!!!

Answer 10

go to iraq