Glad To Be Back

Ireland Needs A Wake-Up Call

I just returned from a trip home to Ireland from San Diego. It was a wonderful experience seeing friends and family. Every time I go, however, the cultural difference is starker and the reasons I left become clearer.

It’s a beautiful country with an economy that punches far above its weight. Many of my friends are living comfortably, and it’s hard to say anything wrong with what they’re doing there. In many ways, they have the best of both worlds—the benefits of capitalism without the downsides. But as the world’s belt tightens over the next twelve to eighteen months, I have concerns.

Ireland’s economy is heavily dependent on outside innovation and investment. Most are content to coast on this without creating any meaningful enterprise. Worse, the attitude is disdainful towards the (mostly) American companies that employ them.

I’m glad to live in a place with an entrepreneurial culture baked in.

With just the right amount of laid-back casualness, for good measure.