I’m British.
I recently spent two weeks in the US for a mastermind.
What I witnessed left me stunned and forever changed how I think about life and business.
Here are 7 brutal truths about US vs UK culture:
1. The enthusiasm gap. Americans are fueled by optimism, while Brits have created a tall poppy syndrome culture.
2. University paradox: The UK has 4 universities in the global top 10. Yet US graduates are 5x more likely to start companies.
3. The self-belief gap: hanging out with our American counterparts feels like meeting a lost cousin who was raised with more confidence.
4. Taking risks: In San Francisco, failure is a badge of honor. In London, it's something to hide on your CV.
5. Creation vs service: Silicon Valley builds the future, while London serves old money.
6. Millionaire migration: The UK is predicted to lose 9,500 millionaires in 2024. The US is predicted to gain 3,800.
7. London has nearly all the traits for creating an innovation hub: European talent access, free healthcare and reasonable taxes. But the culture doesn't breed growth. Maybe the grey weather has something to do with this.
As someone who grew up in a remote British village, I say we need to teleport some of the American energy over here.
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