When we travel, we often don’t think about whether we’ve learned anything about ourselves beyond the fun. My recent trip to Italy, my first time traveling abroad, gave me the opportunity to learn about myself, my family, and how to enjoy life.
Unlike Americans, many Italians enjoy their work and work to live, not live to work. Siesta, or lunch, is a two-hour break, and most businesses close between 1 and 3 p.m. After lunch, they work late and eat dinner at about 9 p.m. It’s evident that they love living life to the fullest. Because they appreciate life and live it fully and passionately, time doesn’t seem as important to them.
Family is very important in Italian culture. A family usually attends church together every Sunday and shares a meal once a week. I was most impressed by the dinners. Rather than a daily routine for sustenance and survival, they serve as a time for social interaction and bonding. Meals aren’t hurried; they are mostly prepared from scratch with fruit and vegetables grown in the garden.
As opposed to my dinners at home, where either the TV is on or someone is absorbed in their cellphone, often ignoring everything else. A commercial break may present the opportunity for someone to inquire, “How was your day?” or “Did you do anything interesting today?”
My first restaurant visit after returning from Italy left me more aware than ever before of how meals are rushed to clear the table for the next customer. There’s nothing personal about it. I understand. Despite the fact that your plate may be empty, the next course in Italy will not be served until you request it.
What did these experiences and observations teach me?
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The importance of family and being present in others’ lives.
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Make dinner a time to bond and engage with your family.
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To enjoy life to the fullest possible by stressing less, spending quality time with loved ones, and doing something for yourself that you enjoy.
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As far as your career is concerned, it’s important to do what you love.
You can read more about Italian dining in my blog post, “Relax and Enjoy Dinner.”
