Globalizing American Society

Globalizing American Society

One could argue that in the face of globalization, it is necessary that we Americans equip ourselves with necessary skills to deal with the global world economy - such as foreign language fluency, an open-minded mentality towards other cultures and cross-cultural communication skills.

The problem is, except for international business people and Foreign Service personnel, I think the average US citizen doesn’t really buy into the idea of “globalizing” themselves, if they don’t have a need to. Most Americans don’t speak a foreign language well and many have never traveled very far beyond our borders, let alone possess skills to deal with professional counterparts overseas.

That doesn’t mean, however, that some Americans don’t dream about working abroad, taking their family on a cultural trip or retiring in a foreign country. Many do. And the good news is that families, professionals and retirees are starting to rethink their priorities in life and put “international experience” on the top of their “to-do” list and as a goal for their children. I know this because I coach many Americans who take the initiative to "globalize" themselves by traveling or moving overseas.

As more people are determined to go abroad to pursue a life more in line with their values, global-oriented Americans now have to find a new way to identify their lives in the face of  “global” dreams and realities.

Shifting your identity from being an American to being a Global Citizen (with American nationality) and becoming part of a truly global community has the power to shift your belief of what is truly possible for your life and the kind of global impact you can make in your lifetime.

I truly believe global-oriented Americans are the ones who have the experience and responsibility to educate America about the benefits of globalizing our children, communities and country.

If every American would believe in the globalization of our society, I believe America could lead the world in creating peace, harmony and synergy between all nations and peoples. We have a long way to go, but we have to believe it is possilbe. What do you think?