French Habits that Changed My Life as an American
Steal these no matter where you live.
When I first moved to France in 2023, I never imagined how deeply the culture would shift the way I live.
What started as admiration for café culture slowly turned into a complete lifestyle change — one that brought more joy, more intention, and yes, a whole lot more butter into my life.
Here are the French habits that truly changed me — and might inspire you too.
1. Cooking as a Daily Ritual, Not a Chore
Before France, cooking was just another box to check. It felt like I never had time to actually enjoy it.
Now? It's one of my favorite parts of daily life.
My French fiancé introduced me to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients — think: cherry tomatoes, butter, herbs, and crusty bread.
Over time, I’ve realized that cooking in itself can be so therapeutic, as long as you’re not pressed for time.
My go-to French cooking essentials:
Le Creuset Dutch Oven – This is a complete game-changer in the kitchen, and you can keep it forever
French sea salt – yes, it makes a difference
Tip: Cooking like the French doesn’t mean hours in the kitchen — it’s about quality over quantity and slowing down enough to enjoy the process.
2. Baking From Scratch Became My Therapy
I used to be afraid of baking anything more complicated than a box of brownie mix.
But the other day, I decided to make bread from scratch, and it turned out better than I expected.
That opened up new horizons for me.
I’ve never considered myself a baker, but learning to bake in France (with the patient guidance of my fiancé, who is a master in the kitchen, even if he’ll never admit it) felt like unlocking a new love language.
From chocolate cake to tarte à la pomme, baking has become a ritual — often accompanied by Clair de Lune playing in the background.
3. Slowing Down (For Real)
The French have a phrase: “prendre le temps” — taking your time. It’s more than a saying; it’s a lifestyle.
Whether it's savoring a long lunch (my fiancé gets a two-hour lunch break!), lingering at a café, or taking a walk after dinner, there's a deep cultural value in being present.
For example, when my fiancé and I have dinner with friends, we often leave five hours later, having lingered for hours over a great meal.
Is that a waste of time?
Maybe I would have thought so a few years ago. But not anymore. I’ve realized that those hours spent being “unproductive” are the ones I remember and treasure the most.
In America, I was all about “productivity”. But I’ve realized that disconnecting from screens and being present is way more satisfying than checking off boxes on an endless to-do list.
4. The Magic of a Simple Picnic
One of the most unexpectedly beautiful parts of life in France? The picnics.
My fiancé and I have spent countless evenings by the Seine with a few easy dishes thrown together at the last minute and nowhere to be.
And let me tell you, those are some of my all-time favorite summer memories.
There’s something magical about sitting on a blanket and watching the sun set, with nothing on your agenda except being together.
5. Embracing the “Less But Better” Mindset
This one seeped into everything — from how I dress to how I shop.
The French art of curation over clutter made me rethink the endless Amazon hauls and fast fashion I used to live by.
Now I ask:
Do I love this?
Does it add beauty or function to my life?
Will it last me a long time?
If not, there’s no point in keeping it or buying it.
Final Thoughts: What the French Taught Me About Living Well
Whether it's baking a cake from scratch or enjoying a glass of wine by the river, the French lifestyle isn’t about luxury — it’s about intention.
And you don’t have to live in France to embrace it.
What do you think about the French lifestyle? Is it something you can see yourself adopting?
Let me know!
Xoxo,
Luba
Affiliate disclaimer: I’ve included one affiliate link to Le Creuset Dutch Oven in this post, which I highly recommend based on personal experience. If you buy through my link, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work.