I don't fit in. What am I doing wrong?

[Mariagatzs12]

I came from across the pond 11 years ago. I've never really had a British friend (I had one for maybe 9 months). When I was in London all of my colleagues where from abroad. The got moved to the west country by my exH almost 6 years ago but as of to this day I still have no close friends.

It's frustrating but also think there isn't much I can do. I don't know if it's because I'm too different? I live in a village where most moms are SAHM but I'm very career driven. I think the vast majority didn't go to uni and I have an MA. I'm Jewish and have a heavy Ameican accent. I don't watch love island nor the day time soaps.

I had a very privileged upbringing and have been called a "Chelsea Princess" but I'm not. Yes I had a nanny, a maid, and a gardener when growing up. Went to private schools and have been around the world but that doesn't mean I'm stuck up.

I don't think over the past few years people have given me the chance. I have a friend who I relate to, but she's not British either.

I lurk on mumsnet because that's how I more or less have come to understand the British psyche, but 90% I feel like I don't fit in and it's a never ending vicious cycle.

I don't have alot of friends either, just 2 old school friends who I see sometimes. I hate love island I find it completely brain numbing. You should give people from different walks of life a chance. Just because some folks aren't well educated like yourself, doesn't mean they're bad people. maybe you're just a socially selective person.

So, the thing that my US friends say is that instead of society, British people have hobbies. That's honestly it. We make friends through shared endeavour - whether that be at work, school, or some kind of mad hobby or crusade.

I have a US friend who lived here for 4 years before anyone invited her round - and she's actually great!! (I met her through a shared...erm... hobby )

If you were in the North I'd say join a brass band. Down there, not sure. Walking group? The WI?

It’s not unusual for “villagers” in Britain to be stand-offish.

I recall you from other posts op (sorry if covered). Your life now - you describe yourself and partner on very low income, receiving benefits, problems with your rented accommodation etc - is very different to what you describe in your OP as your childhood. I am baffled that given your current situation you are being deceived as a Chelsea princess

Unless of course you go on about your childhood...

Gwilt I'm not that Socratic ;) all jokes aside, I don't classify them as bad people or boring. Otherwise I would never have married my husband! Both my ex and current husband have a go at "chavs" every now and then and I find that pointless and mean.

I only mention because over the years I've tried to figure out what's the culprit. I've never tried any hobby club and it has been mentioned quite a few times, so I'll definitely give that a try.

Bring that was my reality until I was made redundant and my wonderful city salary went away.

I received tax credits for the wonderful amount of 4 months. So I know how hard it can be. My family sends money every month so I can keep my lifestyle for the most part. When they come and visit I always get a cash injection.

I had to spend all of my divorce settlement while I was in between jobs. We're able to buy a house because my parents gave us a deposit.

My family pays for everyone to go back to the US to see them and we usually have an extra holiday thrown in. My life in that way is a living contradiction.

@ShesGotBetteDavisEyes, is there really such a place? Weren't sure if you were joking.