I miss Silicon Valley. I love Australia.
They are both awesome. Here are some examples.
Disclaimer: these are my own personal feelings and massive generalizations. They’re also colored by my perspectives and the stage of life I was at in each place. There are variations and exceptions to every rule.
Infinite possibilities vs Safety
In Silicon Valley, it feels like anything is possible. At any moment you could meet someone life-changing, fund something game-changing, have an idea that is revelatory.
In Australia, it feels like everything is safe. You don’t realize how much cognitive load is lifted when you don’t have to worry about banks and insurance companies taking advantage of you, people shooting children in their schools, or retailers selling you toxic things.
Curiosity vs Contentment
In Silicon Valley, everyone is curious about everything. So many discussions are about big ideas and deep explorations. People unpack topics and then unpack them even further - trying to burrow right down into the truth of things. Everything has room for improvement or outright reinvention.
In Australia, everyone is so content with where they are and what’s going on. There’s no need to over-think or ruminate. Just enjoy the scenery and life. You can spend life living instead of dissecting and reinventing. Take a breath. Enjoy!
Speed vs Smelling the roses
In Silicon Valley, everything moves so fast. The actual road speed limit is mostly just a suggestion. Everyone is speeding a little and as long as everyone is speeding the same amount the cops don’t really bother you. You can achieve more in a week than most people achieve in a month. It’s thrilling. It feels like your life can make an outsized impact on the world.
In Australia, everyone is driving under the speed limit. If you’re going 67kph in a 60 zone the automated speed cameras will send you a fine in the mail. Why? Because what’s the rush? Life is good. You get to relax, smell the roses, enjoy the sun, drink a beer, play some sport. Take it easy.
Changing the world vs Living in it
Everyone you meet in Silicon Valley is changing the world in some way. They work on products that affect the lives of millions or billions - if not right now, then maybe one day In the near future. These people are often also passionate about reinventing or pushing forward issues of relationships, race, governance, and other fundamental aspects of society. They’re making a dent in the universe. Nothing is decided.
Most people you meet in Australia are living *in* the world. They are digging stuff out of the ground or selling patches of dirt or fixing plumbing or serving drinks or selling stuff in a store. They are “real” people living with their feet firmly planted in the ground. No silly flights of fancy disconnected from reality. No constant splitting of hairs about the meaning of words or genders or relationships. Everything is pretty simple and straightforward.
Found family vs Actual family
In Silicon Valley, you’re able to piece together your own found family. Incredible people who share your perspectives and priorities. They become like brothers and sisters on your journey to discover and change the world.
My real family is in Australia. Flesh and blood that will always be there for me long after the buzz and hype dies off. They are the people my children must know and grow up with.
Conclusion There are pros and cons to both places.
My life must involve being part of both. I can’t wait for the borders to open up.