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French living isn’t just about where you are. It’s about how you move through life: savoring simple pleasures, choosing quality over quantity, and being present for every moment.

Before moving to France, I used to imagine a stereotypical French lifestyle. One that involved waking up in an immaculate Haussmannian apartment, fresh croissants on the daily, and long, lazy lunches (always with a bottle of wine). These clichés might not be entirely accurate, but there's no doubt that the French way of living is leisurely and pleasure-driven.

Having lived in Paris, Brittany, and now Strasbourg for the past six years, I’ve seen firsthand what it truly means to live à la française. I write about my experiences often as a French lifestyle blog, but I wanted to create a comprehensive guide, a sort of “starter kit” on how to be French (or at least live like you are).

Whether you’re in New York, London, or a small town in the Midwest, you can bring a touch of the French way of life into your daily routine. Here’s how to embrace the French lifestyle, wherever you are.

Mindsets for a French Lifestyle

Cultivate Joie de Vivre

French joie de vivre is all about finding joy in daily life, whether it’s savoring your morning coffee, keeping fresh flowers on your desk, or indulging in a good book. Slow down. Appreciate your meals. Engage in deep, meaningful conversations. Find beauty in your surroundings. Living a French life means making room for pleasure and presence, even in the most mundane moments.

Although the French aren’t typically known as the most “joyful” people, the concept of joie de vivre is less about outwardly expressing constant positivity and cheerfulness (as many of us Americans tend to do), rather a balanced, mindful approach to life.

In my opinion, this is one of the most life-changing French habits that you can adopt and forms the foundation for everything else in this guide.

Live Slowly

It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but the French? They aren’t in a rush. They know how to slow down and enjoy the present.

You can start by lightening up your routine. Allow yourself a leisurely breakfast without the pressure to check emails or scroll through social media. Step away from the to-do list for a few minutes and really be in the moment.

Even after work, the French prioritize quality time over ticking off tasks. An after-work apéro with friends is far more important than squeezing in that last chore. It’s about shifting the focus from endless productivity to connection and relaxation.

This slower pace isn’t just about small moments either; it extends to bigger life decisions too. When it comes to marriage, education, or having children, the French are intentional. They take their time to consider what’s truly right for them, not what society expects. There’s less of a hurry to meet milestones or follow a prescribed timeline than there is in the U.S.

Maybe we can’t all do the same sans the strong social support systems and free education, but we can make thoughtful choices at every stage of life. By adopting this mindset, you’ll create space for what truly matters and experience a deeper sense of satisfaction in the everyday.

Choose Quality over Quantity

In French culture, the philosophy of "less is more" is part of everyday life. Whether it’s fashion, food or friendships, the French don’t tend to overindulge as much as us Americans do, but they certainly seek out la crème de la crème.

For example, they typically buy less consumer goods but prioritize investing in higher quality. Many households own just one television and limit their screen time. French homes themselves are often smaller too (no sprawling suburbs like we’re used to in the U.S.).

When it comes to dining, the French enjoy multiple courses, starting with an apéritif and finishing with dessert. They savor smaller portions of better quality food, preferring to appreciate each bite rather than rushing through meals and consequently overeating.

The same mindset applies to their wardrobes too. Rather than chasing every seasonal trend, many French women invest in a few timeless, well-made pieces that will last them for years.

The French exigence for quality is also evident in their laws, which tend to be strict in many industries, from food production to fashion and even architecture. These regulations help maintain high standards and protect consumers, whether it's by banning certain additives in food or limiting fast fashion.

By embracing a quality-over-quantity approach to life, you’ll not only experience less financial stress (buy better, buy less), but be able to focus on what truly matters.

Set Boundaries

The French don’t apologize for protecting their time. They don’t glorify busyness, and they certainly don’t feel obligated to say yes to everything. If something doesn’t serve them, excite them, or align with their values, they pass. Non, merci.

Try it. Set firm work-life boundaries. Leave your office (or laptop) at a reasonable hour. Decline invitations that drain you. Make your personal time sacred. The French know that saying no isn’t rude, it’s self-respect.

I’ll admit, saying no hasn’t always been natural to me as a people-pleaser. But as I’ve gotten clearer on my goals and values in my late 20s, it’s gotten easier and easier. The French approach to rejection can still feel a bit blunt, but I’ve learned that it’s usually not cold or arrogant, just honest.