Different cultures approach time and relaxation in very different ways.

In this story, a man noticed a common habit among Americans, where sitting and enjoying the moment is often frowned upon.

He compared it to Europe, where people relax at cafés or stroll without rushing.

In contrast, he feels like everything in America must look productive to be accepted.

Do you agree? Check out the full story below.

Why is leisure viewed with suspicion in America?

I noticed this is a uniquely American phenomenon.

In Europe, many times, people will go to cafés.

They sit quietly reading a book for hours or just enjoy the scenery.

In America, it would be viewed as a nuisance if you do not consume your meal and leave soon after.

This man noticed that Americans are obsessed with being “productive.”

Even in places like coffee shops, it is typical to order a coffee and work on your laptop. It is still working and under the guise of “productivity” that you are tolerated.

I rarely see people going for strolls here. Instead, they are in a rush to get from point A to point B.

They are doing something “productive” like jogging.

Now, he has some valid questions about the point of working and grinding.

It almost feels like it is stigmatized to simply sit back and smell the roses. It feels like you are seen as a bum with “nothing better to do.”

If enjoying the small things in life is so bad, then what even is the point of working?

Is it just grinding so you can buy an expensive toy to impress other grinders?

Then, you aspire to buy an even fancier toy by grinding some more?

Let’s read the responses of other people on Reddit to this story.

If you enjoyed this story, check out this post about a woman whose family says they support her art career, but they still don’t want to pay her for product.

Short and straightforward.

This user shares their personal thoughts.

This person makes a valid point.

Here’s another sensible remark.

Finally, here’s another interesting fact.

If relaxing needs a justification, maybe we’re all just working for no reason.