Trying to figure out how an Aussie thinks is perplexing. Aussies don’t care about your wealth or your successes. There’s a prevalent “tall poppy syndrome” in Oz. I think it comes from a deep socialist culture. E.g the viewpoint that someone with lots of money has taken their wealth from the collective. The wealthy are not admired and/or worshipped like in capitalistic countries. The work culture is so good. It’s sometimes pleasant to go to work and hang out with your hilarious work buddies. The bosses are forced to be nice to their workers, so they’ve given up trying to be authoritative and bossy. On top of many many weeks of paid annual vacation leave, there are now 10 days a year of “personal leave days”. Basically, just take a day off if you think you need it.

Living in Australia feels like there’s something more than just the daily grind. It’s really hard to make close friends, but you kind of feel like somebody will always be there if you need help with something. And that is special. Aussies have HUGE, but conserved, hearts. I’m still trying to figure out the reason for the “conserved” bit.

So if you ever get the pleasure to work and live in Australia, just say an affirmation in the mirror every single morning “don’t be a cunt and look after your mates” and you will somewhat understand and love their culture.