Let’s explore the daily life of a French woman! Her routines are a blend of tradition, modernity, and a touch of that renowned French elegance. Whether balancing careers, family, or personal passions, French women navigate their days with a unique grace and an appreciation for the finer aspects of life, making their everyday routines a source of inspiration.
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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FRENCH WOMAN
Introduction
There’s something rather intriguing about the life of a French woman. A bit of allure, mystery and a certain je ne sais quoi, non?
Of course there are common stereotypes. The modern French woman likely doesn’t spend her day at a sidewalk cafe sipping espresso from tiny cups while chain smoking Gauloises. And the working French woman likely does not have time for a 2-3 hour lunch complete with several glasses of wine.
However, there’s often an element of truth in stereotypes.
Take smoking, for instance. The rate of smoking amongst French women is around 23% vs. 10% for women in the U.S. More than twice as many French women are daily smokers but it’s still less than 1 in 4.
French women are not a monolith so it’s challenging to discuss a “typical” day-in-the-life without resorting to trite stereotypes. But I do think there are some commonalities that are fun and inspiring to consider.
Morning Routine
The usual workday in France begins somewhere between 8 and 9:30 a.m. According to this study, French people go to bed late (11:15 p.m.) and arise early (6:48 a.m.). While that is a bit of a sleep deficit, it’s not as bad as that of U.S. adults.
Upon arising, the French woman’s morning routine includes skin care, “le no makeup” look, slightly messy hair style and of course, that effortlessly chic fashion style for which they are justifiably famous.
Breakfast is usually quite light. Traditionally that includes a tartine (sliced baguette with butter and jam), café au lait (sometimes served in a bowl), and perhaps a yogurt and/or fruit.
French Style Breakfast
Work and Daily Activities
There are a number of ways in which the French commute to work. Of course, it will in part depend on their location. Those in large cities are more likely to take public transportation than someone living in a small, rural village. Overall, around 66% use a personal car, 16% take public transportation, and 8% walk. The rest carpool, ride a bike or a scooter.
The French workplace culture:
French work culture is deeply influenced by the country’s rich cultural heritage. Respect for hierarchy, formalities in professional interactions, and a strong sense of pride in one’s work are integral aspects. Establishing strong relationships with colleagues through casual discussions and shared meals is common, contributing to a collaborative and supportive work environment. (Link to article)
French labor laws protect employees, govern working hours, overtime and in general provide a fair and equitable working environment.
The French have a strong work-life balance. They value their leisure time and have a substantial amount of it. Five weeks of paid vacation (minimum) and 11 paid holidays allow ample time for the French woman to pursue interests outside of work.
Lunchtime
The French woman enjoys a 1-2 hour lunch break and takes full advantage of this time by leaving the office and enjoying a leisurely meal at a nearby cafe or restaurant. In fact, the French labor code actually prohibits workers from eating in the workplace.
Drop that fork! Why eating at your desk is banned in France
A leisurely lunch enjoyed with friends or colleagues breaks up the work day and it is believed to increase productivity.
A good French lunch has three parts:
An appetizer (soup, salad, raw vegetables)
Main course (cooked vegetables and meat or fish)
And dessert (fresh fruit or plain yogurt)
This is often finished up with an espresso (no milk or sugar).
Afternoon Routine
After lunch, the working French woman returns to her job. If not employed outside the home she might run errands, shop for the evening meal or enjoy leisure activities.
The French woman, whether employed or not, values the importance of taking time for herself. Whether that is reading, visiting a park, enjoying a cultural activity or a favorite hobby, she knows that life is about more than work and chores.
In general, French adults don’t snack. Children enjoy le goûter, a light snack around 4 p.m. usually consisting of cookies and a drink or (and this sounds delightful to me!) a baguette filled with salted butter and chocolate squares. But in general, the French frown on adults eating between meals.
Evening Routine
When the workday is over, the French woman transitions from professional to personal time. Dinner is often fairly late – around 8 p.m. – so there is time after work to do the daily food shopping, meet friends, attend cultural events or to simply relax at home.
The evening meal tends to be the lighter meal for many. The focus is on fresh, home-cooked meals eaten à table with plenty of conversation.
In the summertime, a typical French dinner might include cooked vegetables or a fresh salad. Dessert is usually fresh fruit, yogurt, or a piece of cheese with bread. Wintertime dinners often feature a homemade soup, bread and cheese.
Nighttime Routine
Following the leisurely evening meal, the French woman will prepare for the next day, read, watch television or a film or engage in a hobby. Her nighttime routine will of course include a good skincare routine.
Conclusion
The French woman’s daily routine is a blend of elegance, balance, and cultural richness. She tends to live her life with intention and this is reflected in her daily life. No one’s life is perfect, including that of the typical French woman. However, her culture provides the structure and encouragement to make herself a priority.
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I have always wanted to live a French woman’s life but in France with the French laws and protections. It simply doesn’t work well here in the US, at least not in my full-time job. I do love reading about the ways they take care of themselves and wish we’d adopt more of that here. I can still take the time to make an effort to adopt better ways to make my life more pleasurable.
If you’re interested, I follow a couple of French women on YouTube that share what/how they eat and I find it fascinating. One is Easy French Diet and the other is Edukale by Lucie.
You are right – it’s much harder to live that lifestyle in the U.S, unless one is quite privileged.
Thanks for the YouTube channel recommendations. I’ll definitely check them out. I’ve been wanting to compile a selection of Francophile YouTube channels here on the blog.