An American man who has made London his home after several years in the UK has openly discussed three quintessentially British habits that initially repulsed him but which he now finds himself practicing regularly. K Jordy, a successful TikTok creator and vlogger originally from the United States, first relocated to Bristol before settling in the capital, where he produces humorous content about British life that resonates widely with audiences.
From Disdain to Daily Routine: A Cultural Transformation
In a recent social media video that has captivated viewers, Jordy confessed that living in the United Kingdom has fundamentally altered his behavior. He identified three specific British customs that used to "give him the ick"—a slang term for causing disgust or discomfort—but which he has since integrated into his everyday life, often without even realizing it. "These are top British things I thought were icky as hell, but now I lowkey do," he announced at the start of his revealing clip, setting the stage for a list that many expats and locals alike will find relatable.
1. The Ubiquitous Text Message Kiss
Jordy's first point centered on the British tendency to append one or two kisses, symbolized by the letter "x," at the end of text messages. Initially, he saw no purpose in this practice, questioning its utility in digital communication. However, over time, he began to adopt it himself, discovering that it serves to soften messages and convey warmth. "I didn't really think there was a point of doing it, but then I started doing it, I start realizing it just eases the text," he explained, humorously attributing it to "British maths, innit." In the UK and Ireland, adding "x" is a common way to express affection, friendliness, or a casual sign-off, effectively making interactions feel less formal and more approachable.
2. The Subtle Art of the Half-Smile
Next, Jordy highlighted the "tight lip half smile" that Brits often deploy when passing strangers on the street. This restrained, subtle facial expression—sometimes lopsided—acts as a non-intrusive acknowledgment, a silent nod of recognition without the need for verbal engagement. Jordy admitted that he had vowed never to adopt this mannerism, yet found it creeping into his own behavior. "I walk down the street and I see someone, it just creeps out," he confessed, demonstrating the half-smile in his video. This habit reflects a broader cultural norm of polite, understated social interaction in British society.
3. Weather Talk as a Personality Trait
The third and, in Jordy's view, most lamentable habit he has embraced is the British preoccupation with discussing the weather. He admitted that the climate has effectively "become my personality," noting that whether conditions are good or bad, it becomes a necessary topic of conversation. He elaborated that weather significantly influences people's moods, citing a recent example in London where temperatures reached 18 degrees Celsius, prompting widespread cheerfulness and a shift to summer attire like t-shirts and shorts. When the weather reverted to its typical state the following day, he observed people returning to "their normal selves." "When the weather's that influential, you almost have to talk about it," he concluded, acknowledging the habit's deep-rooted place in British social discourse.
Reflections on Cultural Adaptation
Jordy's experiences underscore a common journey for expatriates: initial resistance to local customs gradually giving way to unconscious adoption. His story resonates with many who have navigated the nuances of British culture, from communication styles to social etiquette. By sharing these insights through his TikTok platform, he not only entertains but also fosters a deeper understanding of the subtle ways in which environment shapes behavior. As he continues to document his life in London, his observations serve as a lighthearted yet insightful commentary on the blending of American and British identities in an increasingly globalized world.
