Do we as Americans work way too much?

A friend of mine from Switzerland dropped by for a visit and before long, we sparked a conversation on work, money and quality of life. Americans in general have been steadily working harder longer and longer hours since the 1970s while per capita hours mostly fell for industralized countries world-wide. In New York especially, one can easily meet people who work 10-12 hour days who have adapted to the corporate web. More work, more pay, more toys.

So many people have said to me, “Oh you have your own company, so you must not work a lot of hours, huh?” As any small business owner will tell you, that is a great misconception. I may get in a little later than the rest of the workforce, but I also stay later. Having American clients means delivering under American timeframes, and the cycle doesn’t let you go of that.

Perhaps the U.S. (and given globalization) is too capitalistic for any other means, but it would certainly be a worth a try if we can all inject a bit of the European culture into our daily lives and learn to slow down and live. Take the time to eat well, have time for family and friends, and still be a productive citizen of your nation–not of the corporate leash.