An American visitor has sparked a thoughtful conversation after sharing his observations on life in the United Kingdom, concluding that there are five key areas where Brits have the edge over their transatlantic cousins. Zach Lincoln, who has been living in the UK, posted a reflective video on Instagram, carefully noting that his aim wasn't to criticise the US but to highlight the subtle, everyday differences that foster a calmer and kinder way of life.
From Swearing to Social Tolerance: An Outsider's Perspective
Zach's list, which has amused and intrigued Brits and Americans alike, covers a broad spectrum of British society. He first pointed to the nation's unique relationship with profanity, noting how Brits can "slip in profanity so casually" that it leaves Americans questioning what they just heard. He even mentioned encountering words used innocuously in the UK that are considered serious swear words back home.
Next, he championed the renowned British tea culture, urging any visitor to fully embrace it. He described it as something he'd "never seen anything like," a ritual deeply ingrained in daily life for relaxation, conversation, and hospitality, regardless of one's emotional state.
His third point celebrated the intense passion of UK football culture. While acknowledging American sports fandom, he asserted that Brits "love their football," with local derbies like Manchester City versus Manchester United generating particularly heated rivalry.
The Pursuit of Happiness and Balance
Perhaps the most impactful observations centred on quality of life. Zach argued that the UK boasts a superior work-life balance compared to the US. He cited the average working week of around 38.5 hours and the cultural norm of leaving work phones behind when the day ends. This practice, he said, allows people to return to their families, take children to the park, and avoid the chronic burnout he associates with American work culture.
"This is a lifestyle that we should all be aspiring towards," Zach stated. "The level of genuine happiness I've seen in this country is unlike [anywhere else]. And there's also not this like paralysing fear of going to work on Monday."
Finally, he praised the UK's social tolerance. As a person of colour, he contrasted his experiences of feeling unwelcome and facing intimidation in parts of America with the sense of equality "at a glance" he found in Britain. He encouraged other American minorities to experience this feeling for themselves.
Mixed Reactions from the British Public
The video resonated widely, with many commenters thanking Zach for helping them see the UK with fresh eyes and appreciate its virtues. "You are welcome in the UK. Welcome to compassion," wrote one respondent. Another Brit commented, "It's so great to hear Britain getting bigged up!"
However, some offered a more nuanced view, particularly regarding work-life balance. One woman pointed out that while it may be better than in the US, many in the UK still feel burnt out and dread Mondays due to pressures from the cost-of-living crisis, including soaring housing, energy, and food bills. This financial strain, she argued, can undermine the benefits of shorter hours or more holiday time.
Zach Lincoln's insights, shared on January 14, 2026, provide a fascinating snapshot of cross-cultural perception, reminding Brits of the often-overlooked positives in their own society while offering Americans a glimpse of an alternative approach to daily living.
