5 Simple Ways to Live a French Lifestyle

coucou mes amis <3

If you are also obsédée (obsessed) with learning how to live a French lifestyle no matter where you live, you've come to the right place.

This is for my fellow Francophiles who want to embody the French lifestyle of elegance, leisure, and a deeper appreciation for the finer things in life. Here are five simple tips to live like the French.

#1. Eat like the French

One of the most noticeable differences between my experiences living in France and living in the U.S. was the culture around meals.

When I go out to lunch in the U.S., for example, I feel as though the objective is to be seated as soon as possible, eat quickly, grab the check, and make it back to work before the lunch hour is over.

In contrast, lunches in France last several hours - they are never rushed. The focus is not on "getting in and getting out". The purpose is to be present, savor the food, and enjoy the company around you. Even after you finish the meal, you typically stay seated and chat for much longer.

When you'd like to leave, you just kindly request the check from the waiter or waitress. Whereas, in the U.S., the check is swiftly brought to your table after you finish eating, so the table can become available for the next party as quickly as possible.

So, how can we live a French lifestyle in regards to how we eat?

Whenever possible, share meals with family or friends. Engage in conversations, share stories, and enjoy the company. Turn your phone on "do not disturb" and keep it off of the table (unlike me in the photo above!). This can help transform eating into a pleasurable social event rather than a hurried necessity.
Focus on the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food. Chew slowly and savor each bite! This not only aids digestion but also enhances your appreciation of the meal.
Consider adopting the French tradition of course-based meals, even if it's just occasionally. Start with a light appetizer, followed by a main course, and finish with a dessert or cheese. This structure encourages slower eating and a more varied, balanced diet.

#2 Move like the French

Physical activity is a natural part of daily life in France. In many cities, walking and biking are the preferred methods of transportation, not only for the convenience, but because the French prioritize spending time outside & enjoying their surroundings.

Here are a few tips on how to live a French lifestyle when it comes to movement:

Make walking a habit. Instead of driving or taking public transportation for short distances, walk. If you need to drive, park in a parking spot just a little bit farther away from your destination and get some more steps in.

Whether it’s to work, to run errands, or just for leisure, walking is an excellent way to stay fit and explore your surroundings. If distances are longer, consider biking!

Integrate physical activity into your every day. Take the stairs instead of the elevator, go for a walk during lunch breaks, or plan weekend activities that involve movement, such as hiking, an exercise class, or a walk around a new neighborhood. The goal is to make physical activity a seamless part of your life rather than a chore.

#3 Work like the French

The French approach "work-life balance" by working to live, not living to work. This philosophy can lead to a more enjoyable and less stressful lifestyle.

Consider these tips on how to focus more on "living" than on working.

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Avoid bringing work home whenever possible and set aside time for relaxation and leisure activities. This helps in preventing burnout and maintaining mental health.
Make leisure a priority. Spend time with family and friends, pursue hobbies, travel, or simply relax. The French value their time off and use it to recharge and enjoy life.
Focus on working efficiently rather than for long hours. Prioritize tasks, avoid multitasking, and take regular breaks to stay productive. A well-organized workday can help you accomplish more in less time, leaving more room for personal activities.

#4. Appreciate art & culture like the French

The French have a profound respect for their rich artistic and cultural heritage. A major component of living a French lifestyle is appreciating art, literature, and music, and engaging in the culture around you, wherever you live. Here are my best tips for doing so:

Entrance into the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles during my last trip to France

Immerse yourself in quality literature and film. Join a local book club or start your own! Place a book in your work bag to read a chapter or two during your commute to the office. Go to a local film festival or plan a trip to visit the Sundance film festival (highly recommend!).

Engage actively in cultural events and traditions. Attend local theater performances, music concerts, and festivals. Participate in conversations about art and culture with your friends or work colleagues. Volunteer at your community's annual marathon or neighborhood farmer's market.
Make visits to local museums and art galleries a regular habit. Spend time observing the details of each piece, understanding the context, and learning about the artists. Whether it’s a grand museum or a small art gallery, the key is to engage thoughtfully and reflect on what you see.
Attend a local art class like pottery, jewelry making, or glass blowing, or try an beginner dancing class in town.

#5. Prioritize quality over quantity like the French

The French are known for prioritizing quality over quantity when it comes to style, food, and material possessions. Here are tips on how to adopt this lifestyle in each of these 3 areas:

STYLE

Invest in high-quality clothing rather than numerous low-quality items. They are more likely to last longer, function better, and elevate your overall look.
Create a capsule wardrobe with versatile, timeless pieces, including neutral blouses, jeans, a little black dress, blazer, trench coat, and some staple accessories. Select items that can be mixed and matched to create countless different outfits.

FOOD

Prioritize high-quality whole or organic foods into your daily life. Shop at local markets where you can find seasonal produce and artisanal products. This not only supports local farmers but also ensures you are consuming foods at their peak freshness and nutritional value.
Prepare meals at home as much as possible. This gives you more control over what goes into your food.

MATERIAL POSSESSIONS

Regularly go through your belongings and declutter. Donate or sell items you no longer use or need. This not only helps in keeping your space tidy but also makes it easier to find and enjoy the things you truly value.
Be mindful of new purchases. Before buying something, consider if it adds value to your life and if you really need it. This helps me to avoid impulsive purchases and accumulating unnecessary items.

Adopting these 5 simple aspects of a French lifestyle can help you live a life that emphasizes your well-being, relationships, and the community surrounding you, rather than prioritizing work, resume-building activities, and "the grind". If we can't live in France, we can at least know how to live a French lifestyle no matter where we are!

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