🔑 What US-American Love for Storage Reveals About Culture …

After two intensive weeks back in Michigan, filled with networking, exploring potential job opportunities, and reconnecting with friends, my husband and I also managed to move our belongings into storage for now.

When I first visited Michigan years ago, I was amazed by the sheer number of storage facilities. There seems to be one on almost every corner, offered in all sizes and price ranges. It struck me how common it is for Americans to rent extra space, sometimes indefinitely.

From an intercultural perspective, this reflects several cultural values:

🔑 Space and abundance: In the U.S., space is not only available but often seen as a symbol of prosperity. Having room for “more” reflects the cultural comfort with abundance.

🔑 Consumption and mobility: Americans tend to move more frequently, and with a consumer-driven lifestyle, possessions accumulate quickly. Storage offers flexibility without the need to let go.

🔑 Practical independence: Storage provides a solution for keeping things “just in case,” which aligns with a pragmatic mindset and the desire to remain self-sufficient, even during transitions.

What may look like clutter from the outside can actually reveal cultural traits of flexibility, resourcefulness, and optimism about future possibilities.

💡 How does your culture deal with “too much stuff”: by storing it, sharing it, or letting it go?