10 Tips for Living Like an Italian

Many people who visit Italy are struck by how the people embrace their simple way of life. Rural Italians don’t have much money, but they seem to know what it takes to live well. Michael Canzian, successful businessman and first-generation Italian-American, has these 10 tips for an enviable Italian lifestyle stateside.

Slow Down

Americans feel productive when they’re doing something or going somewhere, but Italians understand that life doesn’t have to move so fast. Slow down and take the time to appreciate the simple pleasures in life like a beautiful sunset, the perfect tomato in your salad, or the first sip of your morning coffee.

Walk Everywhere

Walking is as good for the soul as it is for the body. While you may not be scaling the hills of Italy every day, make the time to walk everywhere you possibly can. This will give your body the exercise it needs and your mind the opportunity to clear out the clutter.

Cook at Home

Italy is known for its cuisine, but the best part is that it’s often made with simple, flavorful ingredients you can find at your local market. Start simple with a pesto sauce made with basil, pine nuts, olive oil, and cheese mixed with some pasta for a weeknight Italian feast.

Shop Local

Americans are used to the convenience of grocery stores or online retailers, but there’s something deeply gratifying about buying local. This can mean purchasing meat and vegetables from a local farm, buying a cake from a home baker, or eating at a cafe down the block.

Eat Together

Italians love their food, but they really enjoy it when shared with friends and family. Make it a point to eat together, even if it’s just a quick breakfast before heading out for the day.

Take Naps

Anyone who has traveled to Europe knows that many countries simply shut down in the afternoon so everyone can take an afternoon nap. While this isn’t practical in America, grabbing some midday shuteye can stave off the afternoon slump. Schedule as little as 20 minutes a day to log off and recharge.

Drink Wine

Indulge in some good Italian wine to revel in the flavors of grapes grown in the Italian countryside. Or, if you’re a teetotaler, enjoy a favorite Italian treat to connect you to a particular region.

Visit Family

Italian people love their families, and many generations often gather to celebrate or simply be together. Visit or video chat with your relatives you haven’t seen in a while and make it a point to reconnect periodically.

Learn About Religion

Studies have found that religious people are happier in general. You don’t have to be part of a particular faith tradition, but learn about what Italians experience with their deep faith traditions.

Grow Things

You may not be able to grow tomatoes like they do in San Marzano, but growing fresh vegetables is a big part of everyday life for Italians. You don’t need a farm or even a backyard as many varieties of vegetables can be grown in potting soil.

Everyone is looking for a better way of life these days, but there’s no need to reinvent the wheel to make it happen. Italians have been living well for generations, and now you can too.