No harm in a little hustle

Sidewalks and elevators aside, we basically speak the same language. We enjoy similar food, brands, activities and entertainment and we laugh at the same things. But after a (very fast) couple of weeks working and playing in the Big Apple, I’ve noticed a few things about the New York mindset that feel different to back home

They say that no one f**ks with New Yorkers and I can understand why. This city has a strength and pride that’s not like polite British resolve at all. It’s more extravert, more entrepreneurial and just that little bit punchier.

I mean it’s a friendly place for sure — New York has welcomed us with open arms. Beyond the awesome reception from the team at 200 Hudson Street, it seems any random stranger you meet (on the subway, in the salon, queueing for a speakeasy) is happy to engage in a bit of NY-LON banter. Or tell you about their favourite places in the city. Or comment on the “cute” British accent.

Now I may well be seeing things through the rose-tinted Ray-Bans of an excited tourist but I reckon New Yorkers are way more open than the typical Londoner – especially when it comes to engaging with strangers. And I think that’s a shame for us Brits because often the greatest experiences spring up from the most random encounters.

There’s a hardness to New York too. It feels more Darwinian, more real.. Nothing’s taken for granted or left to chance. Where you come from is less relevant than in London – it really is all about where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. People evaluate each other constantly and that keeps everyone on their toes. It’s exhausting and exciting and in my opinion gives the city a special sort of dynamism and energy.

People here are great at selling themselves – they know where they’re going and they’re happy to talk about it. The world has always loved a trier but now that tech has made everything so wonderfully complicated and democratised I think this truly is the age of the hustler. It’s more important than ever to be open to opportunities, while at the same time staying focused on your goals with gritty determination. If you can do that, literally anything is possible and that’s why I plan to bring a little American hustle of my own back home.