Being in Europe, specifically Berlin, Germany, for the last six weeks I have noticed many cultural differences. One big cultural difference I have noticed in particular is the work culture. In Europe, don't get me wrong people work very hard, but in comparison to America we as a whole are way more stressed when it comes to work compared to Europeans.

For starters in most European countries on Sundays everything is closed. Grocery stores, convenient stores, you name it. Although in America this is an important day where people get things done, it's refreshing that it is different in European countries. At any park you see a group of friends or a family truly enjoying themselves on a Sunday. When I say truly I mean, you don't see any working adults taking business calls, they are spending genuine time with family or friends not worrying about what Monday might bring. This past Sunday I was in Zurich and saw a family at a picnic. I almost envied the fun they were having with each other, they seemed so relaxed. Even this past Tuesday I was at a park in Berlin, and there were so many young people, who normally would have nine to five internships this time of year in America. Most people also just seem to be happier.

I realize that work is important and should be valued, and I believe work is valued in European countries too, but here it is valued equally to friends and family, not above. The values are truly different here, work is important but at least a full day, Sunday, is put aside for friends and family from my observations.

Taking away from this when I get back to America, I would like to make sure I rearrange my values more to spend more time with my friends and family. Sure, work, education, internships, etc., are important but relationships with the people you love are also important. Put away your phone for two hours with your family, see what conversations pop up, a lot can happen when your phone not right by your side for two hours. Tell your work colleagues not to contact you on Sundays. Make time for the people you care about; build a better relation.

If you're young and reading this, you have the rest of your life to work, build relations while you can. If you're an old person and reading this, gosh don't take that call during dinner, you only have so many years left before maybe your kids are too busy to sit down.