For many, the American Dream is the idea that it is possible to achieve a better standard of living by working hard. However, according to historian James Truslow Adams, "… it is not just the dream of owning a car and having a high salary, but that of a social order in which each man or woman is able to reach their potential …" American dream is much more than owning a house, having two children and a car in the garage. It is also the idea that Americans can aspire to a life of proud individualism, esteem and personal freedom.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Ensure a Good Quality of Life
Step 1. Work hard
If there is one thing about the American Dream that everyone agrees on, it is that it takes hard work to achieve. A 2012 US Public Agenda poll revealed that nearly 90% of respondents agreed that a strong work ethic is an "absolutely essential" part of the dream. Whether you are trying to start from the bottom to get to a comfortable middle class, move up from the middle class to the top class, or even climb from the bottom to the top of society, you need a strong personal drive to do so..
Moving forward in American life means working hard to "get the edge" over others who only put in the minimum effort required. If you are just starting to pursue the American Dream, you might be trying to work harder and longer than your co-workers. If most employees generally finish work as soon as they get the chance, they should offer to stay longer. If others waste time during downtime, additional tasks should be found. Working harder than other people is an excellent way to get noticed at work and possibly pick up promotions or salary increases
Step 2. Work smart
If working hard is a must to achieve the American dream, doing it without working efficiently will get you nowhere. In America, it is much better to be recognized for being very efficient and productive, rather than putting a lot of effort into tasks that can be done more easily. It is better to increase your personal efficiency especially at work; you have to ask yourself: "How can I do my job faster?", "How can I do it easier?", "How can I do it with less effort?", and so on. Here are some tips to start increasing productivity:
- If your work is on the computer, it is advisable to write drafts (or ask an experienced friend to do so) to perform the most frequent tasks and low-level tasks.
- If you are overwhelmed with work, try to delegate to others.
- If you have your own business, it's best to hire an agency to handle tasks that take up too much time (like accounting, payroll, etc.).
- Finding tricks for common problems. For example, if you are a waiter and you realize that you are wasting too much time walking back and forth from the ice machine, it is best to start bringing a pitcher of ice with you when serving the tables.
- Better to invest in efficient and high quality equipment.
- Get plenty of rest to be able to devote all your attention to work.
Step 3. Get educated
Although there are many stories in America of people who have been incredibly successful without formal education, in general education is a great boost for career and personal perspectives. An education obtained in high school gives the basic knowledge necessary to be capable and competitive in the contemporary world. However, a type of higher education obtained at university is more suitable; a bachelor's degree gives specialized knowledge and skills and trains higher-rated candidates who might qualify for more selective jobs, while a master's degree is even more specialized. In general, it is in every American's interest to get the best education they can afford.
- In addition, certain types of work require the appropriate educational background. For example, you cannot become a doctor without going to medical university, you cannot be a lawyer if you have not attended law university and you cannot become an architect if you do not have a degree in architecture.
- Getting a higher level of education could really increase your earning potential. On average, in the United States, those who have attended at least two years of college have a lifetime earnings of approximately $ 250,000 (€ 200,000) more than those who have not attended college.
Step 4. Be resourceful
Americans who want to be successful should always find additional ways to make money, either as part of their business or outside of it. There are countless ways to do this; wherever you see a need that needs to be fulfilled, you have the potential to make money. The opportunities to make money can be very simple; for example, if you are an accountant, you could offer your services to friends during the tax return period to gain additional earnings on top of your normal income. Additionally, some of the more lucrative businesses offer creative solutions to non-obvious problems. A famous example is Mark Zuckerberg, an American, who became the youngest billionaire in the world by working to create a global social media that would help people keep in touch in a way that was previously unimaginable.
- You don't have to invent the next Facebook to be successful, but you have to try to be resourceful in your own small way but in a meaningful way. Having a part-time business away from home is for example a good way to get additional income with little extra running costs.
- Of course, regardless of how you make money, you need to make sure you comply with national and local laws. For example, if you are working as a "freelance ecstasy distribution service", this could put you at risk of detention that would hinder your long-term goals.
Step 5. Be thrifty
Many people spend a large part of their income on things they don't need. To build a comfortable life in the long run, it is very wise to eliminate unnecessary expenses. Giving up on luxuries like TV packages, fancy restaurants, and unnecessary vacations can free up resources for expenses that will provide lasting benefit, such as debt payments, business development, and retirement contributions.
- A good way to keep spending under control is to budget for household expenses. Budgeting for monthly expenses and comparing it to actual expenses could be a revealing experience that helps pinpoint areas where too much money is being spent.
- Another way to save includes finding a cheaper home, buying stock groceries, car sharing or using public transport instead of a car, and reducing the use of heating and air conditioning.
Step 6. Devote yourself to passions
Although people in pursuit of the American Dream are wise to work hard, no American is happy if he devotes his entire life to work. Part of the American dream is having the freedom to do things besides work to have a happier and more fulfilling life. It takes time to do things we love; this means cultivating one's hobbies, such as writing, playing sports, caring for the car, but also daily pleasures such as spending time with the family.
If you love your job then that's great! Being able to make money with a job that aligns with one's passions is a luxury not everyone has. If you don't love your job, that's okay. You have to persevere and apply yourself, but also carve out some time for your passions (and to look for other opportunities) to keep your spirits up
Step 7. Buying real estate
While owning a home is not necessary to have a full and happy life in America, many Americans have a home or think they will one day buy it. Even in light of the recent housing crises, most Americans' primary source of wealth is their home. Contributing to a mortgage helps you have equity in your family during your working years, and can help you retire comfortably; selling the house when you are old can on its own constitute a pension.
Owning a home is not just material benefits. This also allows for greater freedom to adapt the living conditions to the way you prefer. For example, if the kitchen is too small, it can be enlarged. If you are renting, you generally can't do that. In addition, many Americans find that owning a home gives a great sense of satisfaction and security
Method 2 of 3: Living as a Free Individual
Step 1. Know basic constitutional rights
Americans have a good degree of personal freedom under the United States Constitution, the nation's basic and certain law. All Americans must know the fundamental rights offered by the Constitution. Enjoying these freedoms can help create a happy, fulfilling, and successful life. On the other hand, ignorance of these freedoms could cause you to miss opportunities or allow others to take advantage of them. Below are some basic rights of the United States Constitution (note that these are all taken from the Bill of Rights, the ten original amendments to the Constitution):
- The right to free expression (including press, to peacefully demonstrate and petition for the government)
- The right to practice one's religion (or not to believe in any religion)
- The right to own weapons (generally referred to as owning a gun)
- Protection against search and seizure
- Protection from testifying against oneself in legal matters
- The right to a public trial by a jury
- Protection against "cruel and unusual punishments"
Step 2. Exercise your freedom of speech
Perhaps the most widely used and cited American constitutional law is freedom of speech. America is a free country; Americans can say anything they want to express their views in any way except in cases where it is harmful to others. This means that it is legal to have any personal and political thoughts and to share these with others, even if one's beliefs are contrary to the established order, as long as the law is respected.
- Certain types of statements specifically intended to cause harm are not necessarily protected by the Constitution. An example given by Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. in 1919 is screaming "on fire!" in a crowded theater; since doing so creates an immediate and real danger to the other people present in the theater, in doing so there is a risk of being arrested.
- Freedom of expression does not necessarily protect people from the consequences of their actions. For example, if a company president makes racist comments that are made public, the board of directors could always fire him. Freedom of speech does not necessarily mean that nothing bad will happen to what is said.
Step 3. Exercise your freedom of religion
The pilgrims who traveled on the Mayflower and who were among the first visitors to America were people who sought a place where they could profess their religion free from harassment and persecution. Today, America maintains this attitude of religious tolerance. Americans are free to practice any religion or, if they prefer, no religion at all. All faiths are permitted in the United States and officially recognized churches are tax exempt from the Internal Revenue Service.
Like free speech, Americans are free to practice the religion of their choice, but not to commit crimes or harm others as part of their practice. For example, if followers of a certain religion decide to drive the wrong way on the freeway as a sign of devotion, they will still be arrested
Step 4. The importance of voting
All American adults are free to (and generally should) participate by voting on the government's choice. In most states, residents are allowed to register to vote at the age of 18, although some allow 17-year-olds to vote. Voting is one of the strongest rights Americans have. Voting allows each voice to be heard in government matters. The vote of all citizens is equal; no matter how rich, powerful or influential someone is, their vote will be as valuable as a minimum wage worker.
- Male Americans must register for the Selective Service ("the draft") in order to vote.
- Some states prohibit criminals from voting even after they have served their sentences.
Step 5. Enjoy the freedom to choose how to live
In the United States, people are free to live as they see fit. They can have any habits, hobbies, or interests if it doesn't violate the law or harm others. What people do in their spare time is up to them alone; bankers can be part of a punk rock group, dishwashers can speculate on the stock exchange, and electricians can study archeology. Everyone is encouraged to choose their own life path; no American needs to feel that there is only one "right" way to lead their life. Americans are free to associate with whomever they want and to pursue the opportunities they prefer.
Note that while Americans are free to live their lives as they please as long as they obey the law, some kind of activity that is allowed in some parts of the world is illegal in the United States. For example, many drugs that are relatively unregulated in some parts of Europe and elsewhere are illegal in part or all of the United States
Step 6. Freely challenge traditional values
An important aspect of achieving the American Dream is taking a stand for your own principles. America has a long tradition of appreciating strong individuals who are willing to "go against the group". Many famous Americans are admired for going against the prevailing attitude or social institutions that were against their personal beliefs. For example, famous Americans like Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, Cesar Chavez and even current icons like Steve Jobs became legendary by changing the world with their willingness to go against the grain and question the way the world worked.
Being an individual means protecting your own principles and having the courage to go against traditional attitudes, but that never means refusing help from someone else. Some tasks are difficult, if not impossible without the help of others; no one should be so proud to think that he can do everything in the world by himself. For example, many famous American companies were started with modest loans from friends, family, or the government
Step 7. Be innovative
Innovation has been one of America's most beloved national values for more than a century and still is today. Innovation is often referred to (for example, by politicians as the key to continued growth and nation success. Being a successful innovator in America is a shortcut to personal fulfillment, material success, and general recognition. For example, some of America's foremost innovators such as Henry Ford, Thomas Edison and others are now recognized for changing the world with groundbreaking work.
You don't have to be a contemporary Edison to make the American dream come true; even small daily innovations can significantly improve life. For example, finding a new, more lucrative way to do business for your company could be worth a promotion and the respect of colleagues
Method 3 of 3: Build a Reputation
Step 1. Aim for personal improvement
It has been observed by those living both inside and outside the United States that Americans have a penchant for self-training and self-improvement. Nobody was born knowing everything they need to be successful. To achieve the kind of strong and vigorous individualism that is central to the American Dream, it is essential to be willing to improve yourself whenever, wherever and whenever the opportunity is offered. Whether it's learning a new skill, practicing a second language, or studying strategies for business success, almost any opportunity for self-improvement can help you become a stronger, more versatile, or more productive person. Below are just a few ideas for self-improvement:
- Exercise (running, weight lifting, etc.)
- Learn sales techniques
- Studying contemporary history or current events
- Learn martial arts
- Being proficient in a hobby or activity
- Create art or music
Step 2. Be a leader
Proud and individualistic Americans must not shy away from confronting the world's problems. Doing this often means becoming a leader and caring for others by accepting the responsibilities of being a leader. Having the courage to volunteer for leadership tasks, whether large or small, can help make a difference in the world by gaining personal recognition.
- A great way to become a leader is to run for public office. Doing so offers a platform to make your ideas known and, if accepted, to fight for the changes you want to see. Even if you don't win, if the campaign attracts enough attention, it can influence public debate or persuade politicians to consider their views.
- You don't have to be a government representative to be a leader of your community. Volunteering in certain types of charities or simply working for your community can offer the opportunity to become a leader.
Step 3. Have an active social life
The United States is founded on principles of representative democracy. If more people participate in the government election by voting, the nation will be more representative of its citizens. For this, all Americans who can vote must perform this duty. However, this is not the only way to participate in the social life of the country. For example, citizens can join a political party whose principles are close to their own and work or volunteer to disseminate its message. Or if some citizens feel particularly passionate about a certain social issue, they may even start their own political association. Below are some more ways to become active participants in American democracy:
- Participate in a round table or forum
- Participate or organize a demonstration
- Volunteer to get signatures for a political candidate or cause
- Donate to your favorite political cause
Step 4. Make the social climb
There is nothing more truly American than the story of someone who managed to be influential and important from almost nothing. Whether one is poor, an immigrant or a permanent citizen, everyone has the opportunity to make a name for themselves in America as long as they are willing to work hard, be creative and have the strength to defend personal values. While, for obvious reasons, it is impossible for everyone to become incredibly rich and famous, it is possible in America to retire with a higher position than when you started your career and make a name for yourself as an important member of the local community.
As you take the social ladder, don't feel threatened by the prospect of dealing with people from higher social strata. In America, more than in some other countries, a person's fate is determined by his will and ability, rather than the privilege of being born into a wealthy family. Even if someone is born into affluence, people who have been able to climb to a certain higher social class are viewed equally by other members of the social class
Step 5. Look for American success stories for inspiration
It is not easy to pursue the American dream. As described above, building a good life that is both free and independent can take a lot of work and responsibility. If you have trouble motivating yourself to pursue the dream, a good idea is to read one of the many iconic American success stories to encourage yourself. Many of these flesh-and-blood people have been able to build an important life out of nothing or have successfully fought against the prevailing societal forces of their time to improve the country (or even the world). Below are just a few examples of American personalities:
- Andrew Carnegie: Poor Scottish immigrant, Carnegie began his career as a "reel boy" in a factory and ended up being one of the most powerful and important industry moguls.
- Susan B. Anthony: Leading the women's suffragist movement with tireless commitment, which also resulted in her imprisonment, Anthony was instrumental in gaining the right to vote for women in the United States.
- Jawed Karim: This immigrant, best known for cofounding YouTube, also helped design PayPal's commercial service.
- Jay Z: Named after Shawn Carter, this American music icon started from a life of crime and poverty to become one of the wealthiest and most influential people in the music industry.
Advice
- Don't be afraid to take calculated risk chances. The United States has an extensive social safety net, both public and private.
- Don't get overwhelmed by the thought of expenses. With two moderately high incomes, even a million dollar house can be paid for over a working life.
- Take advantage of the public education system (see above).
- Live with the means at your disposal.
- Pursue realistic goals. If you want to be the future Bill Gates then you better know computers well and this is true for other industries as well.
Warnings
- You have the right to pursue your happiness… but there is no guarantee!
- The American nightmare is very similar to the American dream. Be very attentive to the advice to follow. Wrong advice will lead you on the wrong path. Accept marriage advice only from people who are already married and business advice only from people who have been successful, responsible and debt free.
- Stress, depression, and other forms of work-related crises can negatively affect your resolve for success and your personal relationships. Pay attention to the first symptoms and see a psychologist if necessary.
