The British Past/Present Perspective

The British culture is like most of the Northern, Central and Southern European cultures positioned somewhere between the past and present cultures on the scale. Most British are very much aware of this and the particular worldview this creates is an important element of British life.

To the British the focus on the past grants a certain amount of security. The British value set ways and traditions, which means they do not always like changing their ways. This can for example be seen in sayings such as 'let sleeping dogs lie' or 'Don't trouble Trouble until Trouble troubles you'.

The British focus on the past means they are well educated in the history of their nation and they are happy to share their knowledge with everybody who asks.

In business the combination of the British preference for security and the past, results in a stable and yet progressive business environment.

The British prefer doing business with people and companies whom they know and have shared history with. While cold calling is catching on, setting up new contacts through established networks.

A focus on The Present

The British focus on living in the now has resulted in a culture where people value social contact and use considerable amounts of resources on networking in both business and private life. This might be the reason why a great deal of the British income is spent in bars, pubs, and restaurants.